Important Questions to Ask Your ABA Provider About Hours and Scheduling
Published September 16, 2025
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2 min read
When starting ABA therapy, one of the biggest questions parents face is: How many hours does my child really need? The truth is, therapy schedules can look very different from one child to another. Asking the right questions early can save a lot of stress and ensure therapy works well for both your child and your family.
Some children benefit from 10–15 hours of ABA every week, while others may need 30 or more. Too few hours may slow progress, but a packed schedule can cause burnout. The key is balance—finding a plan that meets your child’s needs without overwhelming your family routine.
Smart Questions to Ask
When you meet with an ABA provider, consider asking:
- How many hours per week do you recommend, and why? (They should explain this based on assessments and goals.)
- How flexible is scheduling? (Can sessions work around school, naps, or family routines?)
- Can hours change over time? (Needs often shift as kids grow and progress.)
- What happens if we miss a session? (Ask about make-up sessions or cancellation policies.)
- Where will therapy take place? (Home, school, or clinic settings affect scheduling and consistency.)
These questions help you see not just the “what,” but the “why” behind the recommendations. A quality provider will be open, flexible, and transparent.
Finding the Right Fit
At the end of the day, ABA should support your child’s growth and fit your family’s life. If you’re looking for trusted options, ABA Navigator makes it easy to compare and connect with providers.
Explore ABA Navigator Providers to find a provider and schedule that works for you.
FAQs
How many hours are typical for ABA therapy?
It varies—some kids need part-time sessions, while others benefit from 30+ hours per week.
Can ABA happen after school or weekends?
Yes, many providers offer flexible hours, but availability differs.
Does more therapy always mean faster progress?
Not always. Quality and consistency matter more than just the number of hours.
Sources:
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7265021/
- https://www.autismspeaks.org/applied-behavior-analysis
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9458805/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8702444/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9672611/
