The First 90 Days of ABA: What Progress Often Looks Like and Why

When a child starts with Applied Behavior Analysis, the first few months are full of change, hope, and learning—for both the child and their family. The beginning of this journey is about setting the foundation for meaningful progress. In the early stages, families often wonder what to expect, how success is measured, and when changes will be noticeable. ABA Therapy plays a key role in shaping new behaviors and reducing challenging ones in a structured, step-by-step way.

What Is ABA and Why the First 90 Days Matter

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapy based on the science of learning and behavior. The first 90 days are important because they help therapists understand the child, build trust, and create a strong plan. This period helps set realistic goals and expectations.

Building the Foundation: Assessment and Planning

In the beginning, therapists spend time observing the child. They learn about the child’s strengths, challenges, and interests. During this phase, therapists and families work together to create a personalized treatment plan that focuses on the child’s needs.

Getting Comfortable: Establishing a Routine

The first few sessions might feel slow, but they are essential. The child is getting used to a new person, new activities, and a new routine. Building trust between the child and therapist is the first big win.

Small Steps, Big Changes

In ABA, progress often comes in small steps. A child might learn to make eye contact, follow simple instructions, or use one or two new words. These changes may seem small, but they are big victories in the long run.

Data Drives the Process

ABA is data-driven. Every session includes tracking behaviors, skills, and improvements. This helps therapists know what’s working and what needs adjusting. It also shows families real proof of progress over time.

Handling Challenging Behavior

It’s normal for children to show some challenging behaviors in the early stages. This may be because they are adjusting or because they’re learning new expectations. Therapists use these moments to teach better ways to communicate and behave.

Parent Involvement Is Key

Families play a major role in ABA. Therapists often teach parents how to use certain strategies at home. When parents are involved, children tend to learn faster and generalize skills more easily.

Progress Isn't Always Straightforward

Some days are better than others. It’s important to understand that progress may not be a straight line. There might be setbacks, but that’s part of learning. What matters most is consistency and patience.

Flexibility with Virtual ABA

Thanks to technology, many families now use virtual aba services. These sessions can be just as effective when delivered online. Virtual sessions help families who live far from clinics or have busy schedules. They also allow therapists to see how the child behaves at home.

Tracking Milestones at Home

Families often start to see changes at home after a few weeks. Children may begin to follow routines better, show fewer tantrums, or respond to their names. These small milestones are signs that the therapy is working.

Communication Improvements

Improving communication is a major goal of ABA. In the first 90 days, children might begin using gestures, pictures, or simple words to express their needs. This can reduce frustration and improve relationships.

Social Skills Start to Develop

Even if a child doesn’t speak much, early ABA sessions often focus on social skills. These can include things like taking turns, making eye contact, or imitating actions. These are the building blocks for future interaction.

Celebrating Every Win

In ABA, every small success is worth celebrating. Whether a child learns to sit for five minutes or uses a new sign, these victories build confidence—for the child and the family.

Regular Check-ins and Updates

Therapists check in with families often during the first 90 days. They share updates, answer questions, and sometimes change the plan if needed. These conversations help everyone stay on the same page.

Building Toward Long-Term Goals

While the first 90 days are just the beginning, they set the tone for long-term success. The habits, routines, and skills built now will support future learning in school, at home, and in the community.

Why Patience Pays Off

ABA works through repetition and reinforcement. The first 90 days may require patience, but with consistent effort, change happens. Trusting the process and sticking to the plan can lead to amazing results over time.

Conclusion

The first 90 days of ABA are about learning, adjusting, and growing—both for the child and their family. With trust, teamwork, and time, real progress becomes possible. Stay patient, stay involved, and celebrate the small steps. They add up to big change.