Learning how to connect with others is an important part of growing up. For some children, these skills do not come easily, and daily interactions can feel overwhelming. This was true for one 7-year-old boy whose parents and school team noticed an increase in aggression and challenges with self-regulation.
His story is an example of how children with autism who participate in ABA therapy can develop social skills, learn coping strategies, and discover the joy of being with others.
The Challenge: Struggles with Social Skills
Over the summer, his parents began to notice that things were getting harder at home. When the new school year started, his teachers saw the same changes. Being around other kids was especially tough; if a peer came too close, he often couldn’t handle it. If another child got too close, he might try to hit them or use threats to push them away.
Both his parents and school team were concerned. His teachers began creating a Behavior Intervention Plan to address these challenges. At the same time, his parents reached out to Circle City ABA for support.
A Plan for Growth
He began ABA therapy just a few weeks before school started. The team at Circle City ABA started by observing his behaviors and collecting data. They noticed he was struggling most in situations that required social skills.
Some of the areas identified included:
- Recognizing emotions in others, both in pictures and in real life
- Understanding what might cause someone to feel a certain way
- Learning appropriate ways to respond to other people’s emotions
- Asking for what he needed, like saying “I need space”
- Practicing conversation skills, such as asking questions or ending a chat politely
- Using coping skills, such as “Figure 8 breathing,” “Fire Hands,” or “Bunny Sniffs”
With this information, the BCBA created a Behavior Intervention Plan. His parents were thrilled with the strategies and requested to share the plan with his school and family members so everyone could support him in the same way.
Early Successes with ABA Therapy
Within just a few weeks of following his new plan, progress became clear. Staff noticed he was spending more time with peers, something that had been a major struggle before.
He started joining others during scooter play, blowing bubbles together, jumping on the trampoline, and even sitting with them for snack time. He began participating in group art projects and playing familiar games like Duck, Duck, Goose.
Even more encouraging, he began independently apologizing to peers when needed. He also started noticing when others needed space and gave it to them without becoming upset. These moments showed real growth in his ability to manage emotions and build relationships.
A Parent’s Perspective
Parents are an important part of every success story, and his family was eager to be involved. They joined parent training sessions to better understand his progress and to learn how to support him at home.
After one of those sessions, his mom shared a heartfelt message:
“Thanks again! I’m so happy for our family. I feel like you really care and understand him, and it’s amazing to have your support.”
For his parents, these changes weren’t just about fewer challenges. They were watching their son become more confident, enjoy time with other kids, and find joy in the little moments of connection. What once felt heavy with worry was now replaced with hope and a renewed excitement for what the future could hold.
Why Social Skills Matter
This story shows just how powerful social skills can be. Learning to notice when a friend is upset, knowing how to ask for space, or remembering to take turns in a conversation may sound simple, but for this child, those skills opened new doors. They gave him the chance to join games, make friends, and feel proud of himself at school. These everyday moments are building blocks for bigger things, friendships, confidence in the classroom, and independence as he grows.
For this child, learning how to interact with peers has already changed the way he experiences school and home life. Instead of isolating himself, he is now joining others and discovering the fun of shared activities.
Contact Circle City ABA Today
At Circle City ABA, every child can grow, connect, and thrive. Real-life transformations like this are possible when children receive the right support and families feel guided every step of the way.
If your child struggles with social skills, coping strategies, or daily routines, ABA therapy may help. We invite you to contact Circle City ABA today to learn more. Schedule a tour of one of our centers, meet our team, and see how we can partner with your family. Find a location near you! We serve Arizona, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, and Nebraska.
Together, we can celebrate the small steps that lead to big transformations.
Disclaimer: Every child is different. This story reflects the progress of one individual. Outcomes may vary based on several factors, including the child’s unique needs and the level of support they receive.
