What I’ve learned supporting children with autism as a therapist, educator and parent

Supporting children with autism can look very different depending on the environment. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work with children with autism from several perspectives: as a registered behavior technician in an applied behavior analysis (ABA) clinic, as a special education paraprofessional in a school setting and as a parent of a child with autism. I am now a registered behavior technician at TidalHealth Pediatric Development & Therapy.  

Experiencing autism through these different roles has taught me that while every child is unique, one thing remains consistent: children with autism thrive when the adults around them work together to support their needs. 

One of the most important things I have learned working in therapy is that behavior is communication. When a child struggles with a task, becomes frustrated or engages in challenging behavior, there is usually an underlying reason. Our role as therapists is to understand that communication and teach safer, more effective ways for the child to express their needs. 

Therapy also emphasizes breaking larger skills into smaller, manageable steps. Whether it is learning to ask for help, participate in play or transition between activities, progress often happens gradually. Over time, those small steps can lead to meaningful growth and increased independence. 

For many children with autism, these environments can be overwhelming due to sensory input, changes in routine and social demands, which may make it harder to focus or participate in group activities. Special education staff play a critical role in helping students navigate these challenges while still supporting their learning and inclusion with peers. 

In the classroom, collaboration is essential. Teachers, paraprofessionals, therapists and support staff often work together to adapt instruction, provide accommodations and create structured routines that help students feel successful. 

Parents often become their child’s strongest advocates and biggest supporters. They are the ones who see their child’s progress every day, celebrate the small victories and continue practicing skills long after therapy sessions end. 

This perspective has reinforced something I believe strongly: families are a vital part of a child’s support system. When parents, therapists and educators work together, children receive consistent guidance across home, school and therapy environments. 

For example, a communication skill introduced during therapy may become truly functional when a child uses it to request help in the classroom or express a need at home. When all members of a child’s support team communicate and collaborate, it helps ensure that those skills carry over into everyday life. 

Consistency, patience and teamwork can make a significant difference in helping children with autism grow and succeed. 

When these perspectives come together, they form a strong network of support that helps children reach their full potential. 

Every child with autism has their own unique path, but with understanding, collaboration and encouragement, they can continue to learn, grow and thrive.