The first ABA session can feel like a big unknown for families. Parents often wonder whether their child will cooperate, what the therapist will actually do, and how they are supposed to be involved. Walking in with a realistic picture makes the experience much smoother.
Before the session begins, your therapist will typically spend a few minutes connecting with your child through preferred toys, games, or conversation. This is not wasted time — building rapport is the foundation that makes everything else work. A child who trusts their therapist learns faster.
Early sessions are largely about observation and relationship-building. The therapist is watching how your child communicates, what motivates them, how they respond to requests, and what their natural play looks like. This informs how the formal treatment plan is individualized.
You may notice the therapist using a lot of reinforcement — praise, access to a favorite toy, a small snack. This is called positive reinforcement and it is the backbone of ABA. The therapist is teaching your child that cooperation and effort produce good outcomes.
Parents are encouraged to observe, especially in the early weeks. You do not need to intervene or manage the session, but watching helps you understand what strategies the therapist is using so you can apply the same consistency at home.
After the session, ask your therapist for a brief recap — what went well, what they noticed, and what to expect next time. Consistent communication from the start sets the tone for a strong family-therapist partnership throughout the program.