Yes, you can pause ABA therapy, but it’s important to do so thoughtfully. Life events like illness, travel, or family changes may require a short break. A temporary pause may not significantly affect progress if it’s planned and well-communicated with your child’s therapy team.
However, long breaks can lead to regression or slowed skill development. ABA therapy works best with consistency, and skills are often built step-by-step. Stopping abruptly without a plan can disrupt progress.
Before pausing, talk to your child’s therapist. They can help create a plan to maintain key skills at home and ensure a smooth transition back into therapy when the time is right.
At Bluebell ABA, we understand that life happens. Our team works with families to create flexible plans that keep your child’s goals in focus, even during breaks.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will my child lose progress during a pause?
Possibly, especially if the break is extended or unstructured.
2. Can I continue some therapy at home?
Yes. Therapists can provide strategies to support skills during the break.
3. How long is too long to pause?
It depends on the child, but more than a few weeks may impact progress.
Sources:
- https://www.autismspeaks.org/expert-opinion/regression-autism
- https://www.autismspeaks.org/applied-behavior-analysis