Raising a child who receives Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy comes with unique rewards and challenges. Whether you’re navigating diagnosis, therapy planning, daily routines, school transitions, or community supports, having a reliable set of resources and tools at your fingertips can make all the difference. At Verbal Behavior Associates (VBA) California, we recognize that family support plays a vital role in your child’s success. This checklist outlines essential resources and practical tips to help parents in the California ABA community feel confident, informed, and supported every step of the way.
Why a Family Support Checklist Matters
Families involved in ABA therapy juggle many responsibilities — from understanding intervention strategies to finding local supports and managing emotional well-being. A structured checklist helps you stay organized, connect with valuable tools, and ensure that your family’s needs are being met holistically. Whether you’re new to ABA or seeking additional resources, the items below offer a roadmap to strengthen your support network and enhance your child’s progress.
1. Parent Training & Education
Understanding the principles and techniques of ABA empowers you to participate meaningfully in your child’s therapy. Parent training builds your confidence and aligns home routines with clinical goals, leading to more consistent progress. VBA California offers family education integrated directly into its ABA programs, helping parents learn practical tools and strategies they can use every day. Learn more about our parent training programs.
- Attend parent training sessions offered by your ABA provider or local clinics.
- Explore structured ABA parent training curricula online.
- Use handouts and workbooks focused on communication and behavior strategies.
2. Local California Resources & Support Networks
California offers a wealth of services and organizations to help families connect, share knowledge, and access tailored support. These networks reduce isolation and strengthen community connections.
- Find autism centers and support clinics in your region.
- Join local or virtual parent support groups.
- Engage with advocacy groups for guidance on parent rights and services.
3. Informational Toolkits & Checklists
Use practical tools to stay organized and improve communication with your child’s care team.
- Create an ABA resource checklist with materials and contact lists.
- Organize a binder or digital archive for evaluations and therapy reports.
- Keep a support contacts list for easy reference.
4. Online Learning & Free Resources
Accessing free digital tools and educational content allows you to support your child more effectively at home.
- Watch ABA training videos on topics like prompting and reinforcement.
- Use printable data sheets and visual schedules to track daily routines.
- Complete online parent modules to deepen your understanding of ABA principles.
5. Collaborative Planning With Schools & Therapists
Effective collaboration among parents, ABA professionals, and school staff creates consistency and amplifies your child’s success.
- Attend IEP meetings to align school and therapy goals.
- Use daily communication logs between home and school or therapy sessions.
- Schedule regular progress reviews with your child’s BCBA.
6. Emotional & Family Well‑Being
Supporting your child also means ensuring your own well-being and that of your family.
- Follow a self-care checklist to build in moments of rest and support.
- Maintain consistent family routines to reduce stress and anxiety.
- Create sensory-friendly spaces to promote calm and comfort at home.
7. Advocacy & Legal Resources
Being informed about your rights helps you advocate effectively for services and support.
- Connect with disability rights organizations in California.
- Attend workshops to understand your rights under educational law.
- Participate in local advocacy events and support networks.
Final Notes: Support Is a Journey, Not a Destination
Parenting a child who receives ABA therapy involves continuous learning, adjustment, and celebration. Use this checklist as a foundation for strengthening your family’s support network, accessing valuable resources, and fostering an environment where your child can thrive. By combining education, community connection, professional collaboration, and emotional resilience, families in the California ABA community can navigate this journey with confidence and purpose.
If you’re ready to explore personalized supports for your family or need guidance navigating your child’s ABA journey, Contact us today to connect with a specialist who can help.