What to Do if Your School is Not Supporting ABA: How to Advocate for Your Child’s Needs

If your child needs Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and your school isn’t providing it, it can be frustrating and overwhelming. 

As a parent, it’s natural to want the best for your child. ABA is an effective, evidence-based treatment for children with autism and other developmental challenges, and schools are required to provide it if it’s necessary for your child’s education. 

So, what do you do if the school isn’t on board? Here’s a straightforward guide on how to advocate for your child’s ABA needs.

Understand Your Child’s Rights

First, know that your child has legal rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. These laws require schools to provide services that meet your child’s needs, including ABA, if it's part of their education plan. If the school isn’t offering ABA, they may be failing to meet these requirements. It’s time to step in and advocate for your child.

Start by Talking to the School

Your first step should always be to communicate with the school. Arrange a meeting with your child’s teacher, special education staff, or principal. Be clear about why ABA is important for your child and how it can help them succeed. Explain that ABA is often an essential part of their learning process, and ask how the school can integrate it into their plan.

Take Formal Action if Needed

If your conversation with the school doesn’t lead to changes, it’s time to take more formal steps:

1. Request an IEP Meeting: If your child has an IEP, you have the right to ask for a meeting to discuss adding ABA therapy to the plan. Be clear about your concerns and provide evidence showing why ABA is necessary.
2. Request an Evaluation: If the school hasn’t evaluated your child’s needs properly, request a reevaluation to ensure they fully understand what your child needs to succeed.
3. Seek Outside Support: If the school is still resistant, consider getting an independent assessment or evaluation from an outside expert. They can provide a fresh perspective and help make your case for ABA services.
4. Know Your Legal Rights: If things don’t improve, you might need legal support. Special education attorneys or advocates can help you fight for the services your child needs.

Find the Right ABA Provider

While advocating for ABA at school is crucial, sometimes it’s also important to find an outside ABA provider who can work with your child if the school is not providing the support they need. Look for a trusted ABA provider who can help with home-based therapy or outside services.

One helpful tool to find the right provider is ABA Navigator. You can search for ABA providers by location and insurance, making it easier to find the best fit for your child’s needs.

Check out ABA Navigator’s provider directory here to start your search.

FAQs

What is ABA therapy?

ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) is a proven therapy for children with autism that focuses on improving social, communication, and learning skills.

Can my child get ABA therapy at school?

Yes, if your child has an IEP or 504 Plan, the school is required to provide ABA if it’s necessary for their education.

How can I find an ABA provider near me?

You can use ABA Navigator to find ABA providers in your area, search by insurance, and explore the services they offer.

Sources:

• https://www.autismspeaks.org/autism-school-your-childs-rights
• https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/best-education-for-asd-child
• http://www.ed.gov/laws-and-policy/individuals-disabilities/section-504
• http://www.ed.gov/laws-and-policy/individuals-disabilities/idea
• https://www.understood.org/en/articles/what-is-an-iep