Kay had her very first day of ABA therapy on Monday, and she was so excited! I think the excitement was helped by the fact that we’d already visited the facility twice before her official start. Those visits gave her a chance to explore, check out all the toys, and meet a few of the staff, so she could build a positive association with the space before her first real session.
Still, as much as I tried to prepare her, I was a little worried that the excitement might fade once she realized that ABA meant Mom wouldn’t be staying. Sure enough, drop-off day number two came with some tears — from Kay, and maybe a few from me on the inside, too. I knelt down, gave her lots of hugs, and reminded her that I always come back. Those few words have become a sort of mantra for us during transitions like this.
Kay’s reaction reminded me so much of the start of a new school year. The first day is always full of excitement and smiles, but by the second day, the reality sets in that our morning drop-off means time apart. It’s never easy watching her get upset, but I know this is part of the process — one that will ultimately help her grow.
ABA will not only support Kay in building communication, social, and daily living skills, but it will also help her confidence and independence blossom over time. I know that soon, drop-offs will be easier. The tears will turn back into smiles, and she’ll be running through those doors excited for another day of fun and learning.
Watching her take these first steps — even the emotional ones — reminds me just how brave she really is. Every new experience, every new challenge, is another piece of her story and another reason to be proud of how far she’s come.