ABA Therapy and Your Child's IEP: Working Together
If your child receives both ABA therapy and has an Individualized Education Program (IEP) at school, coordination between these services can make a meaningful difference.
Understanding the Overlap
ABA therapy and school-based special education services share some goals but operate under different frameworks:
- ABA therapy is a medical/behavioral health service prescribed by a healthcare provider
- IEP services are educational supports provided under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
- Consistent behavioral strategies across settings
- Shared data on skill progress
- Aligned goals that reinforce each other
- Smoother transitions between home, therapy, and school
- Reduced confusion for your child
- Ask your ABA provider if they offer school consultation or IEP meeting attendance
- Share relevant information between your ABA team and school team (with appropriate consent)
- Request consistent language and strategies across settings
- Include your ABA provider in IEP meetings when possible
- Review goals together to ensure alignment without unnecessary duplication
Both aim to help your child develop skills, but they approach it from different angles.
Benefits of Coordination
When ABA therapists and school teams communicate, benefits can include:
How to Facilitate Coordination
Colorado-Specific Considerations
Colorado school districts vary in their openness to outside provider coordination. Some districts have established processes for working with ABA providers, while others may need more guidance. Your ABA provider's experience with local school districts can be valuable.
Finding Providers Who Coordinate Well
When selecting an ABA provider, ask about their experience with school collaboration. Some Colorado providers specialize in school-based support and have established relationships with local districts.
This article is for informational purposes only. For specific guidance about your child's educational rights, consult with a special education advocate or attorney.