Helping Your Child (and Family) Get Ready for Therapy

How to Prepare for Starting Pediatric Therapy at Hopebridge

We know starting a child in therapy is a big step for everyone involved. Starting something new may leave you feeling excited, curious and even a little bit anxious. That is all normal and often true for children and caregivers alike!

Whether entering applied behavior analysis (ABA therapy), speech therapy, occupational therapy, the days leading up to therapy are a wonderful time to begin setting the tone: safe, positive and full of potential.

As the first day approaches, these simple steps can help your child feel supported and ready to begin this new adventure.

• Spend special one-on-one time together  
  Set aside a few intentional moments just for your child. A cuddle, a quiet chat or a favorite activity can go a long way in reassuring them: You are safe. You are loved. We’re in this together.
• Talk about Hopebridge with excitement  
  Use encouraging language when you mention Hopebridge so they know it’s a place where learning and fun happen. Your child will take cues from you. Your confidence helps build theirs.
• Practice “therapy-style” play at home 
  Try simple activities similar to what your child may do during the day, such as: “Let’s practice blowing bubbles together,” or “I’m going to show you how we color a picture.” These small moments help make new experiences feel familiar.
• Begin easing into your new routine  
  If your child isn’t already on their upcoming schedule, try adjusting bedtime, wake-up time, and meals a little at a time. Gentle changes now can make the first days smoother.
• Gradually fade back long naps  
  We don’t want children to feel overtired, but we also want them to get used to staying engaged during the day. If your child becomes sleepy, your child’s care team will support them as needed—but we don’t plan scheduled nap times. Getting a good night’s rest and easing back longer naps ahead of time can ease the transition.
• Lead with warmth and enthusiasm  
  Show your kiddo lots of love in the days leading up to therapy. Start mornings with smiles, hugs and happy greetings. A cheerful hello can set the tone for the whole day and help your child feel excited to go.

We know you want what’s best for your child and we do, too! If you are looking for more ways to make day one a smooth start, we’ve got you covered.

*Informed consent was obtained from the participants in this article. This information should not be captured and reused without express permission from Hopebridge, LLC. Testimonials are solicited as part of an open casting call process for testimonials from former client caregivers. Hopebridge does not permit clinical employees to solicit or use testimonials about therapeutic services received from current clients (Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts 5.07-5.08; BACB, 2020). Hopebridge does not provide any incentives, compensation, or renumeration for testimonials provided by a former client or client caregiver.