Some changes in life can feel overwhelming, especially for children with autism. One child in our care has recently experienced significant changes. After living with his mom, he moved in full-time with his grandparents about a year ago. Initially, his grandmother, a travel nurse, was often away from home. When she started staying home more, the child had a hard time letting her out of his sight. This led to autism separation anxiety. Our blog shares the story of how, with support from Circle City ABA and a lot of love from his family, this child learned to feel safe and gain independence.
Please note: Therapy is a highly personal experience, and, like any other treatment, results are not uniform. Several factors determine whether a child will benefit from therapy, including individual characteristics, the nature of their needs, and the quality of support they receive at home and/or school.
Adjusting to a New Living Environment
Significant changes, like moving to a new home, can be tough for anyone. Still, they can feel even harder for children with autism. This young boy had to leave his mother’s house and start living with his grandparents full-time. Additionally, his grandmother was often away during the first several months due to her job.
When she finally started staying home more, it didn’t feel stable to him right away. In fact, he began to feel very anxious whenever she wasn’t nearby. He followed her everywhere. He would even cry outside the bathroom door if she were showering or using the toilet.
She couldn’t leave the house without him. Not even to run errands or take a short walk. This created stress and autism separation anxiety for everyone in the home.
Building Trust Through ABA Therapy
The child began receiving ABA therapy in October 2023. As his relationship with the therapy team grew stronger, so did the support plan for his family.
One weekend, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) visited the home for a special consultation. The goal was to test a plan to help the child start feeling okay when Grandma wasn’t in the same room.
They started small. At first, Grandma stepped into her bedroom for just a minute or two. There were tears. But with gentle guidance and encouragement, they tried again.
By the end of that session, the child could tolerate Grandma being in her room for 10 minutes without crying. It was a huge step forward.
Helping the Family Feel Confident
The BCBA didn’t just work with the child. They also worked with the grandparents to build a plan they could follow. The family felt confident that they could keep practicing this plan on their own. They understood how to slowly increase the time Grandma could spend away while keeping the child feeling safe.
They knew they didn’t have to rush. Progress would come step by step.
Reaching New Milestones at Home
In the weeks that followed, the family continued practicing the plan. And the results were life-changing.
Just last week, the child stayed home with a babysitter while his grandparents went on a date. That’s something that felt impossible just a few months ago.
Now, Grandma can come home from work, go upstairs for 20 minutes to rest, and then come back down for one-on-one time with her grandson. Everyone is getting more balance, rest, and joy.
A Bright Future Ahead
With support from ABA therapy, this family has made real progress. The child still loves being close to his grandma, but now he understands that she will always come back. That trust is what helps him stay calm and feel safe. He no longer suffered from autism separation anxiety.
And for Grandma and Grandpa, this means they can live a little more freely, too. They can take care of themselves while continuing to give the love and care their grandson needs.
Interested in ABA Therapy for Your Child?
Circle City ABA is here to help families just like yours. Our therapy plans are personalized to meet your child’s needs. We work with families to create a plan that supports progress both in our centers and at home. We serve children ages 18 months to 17 years. Whether you’ve just received a diagnosis or are looking for extra support, we’re ready to help.
* Our Arizona ABA Therapy locations are equipped to serve individuals with an autism spectrum disorder and other developmental diagnoses. Our Scottsdale ABA Center focuses specifically on teens (16 years and older) and adults.
Contact our admissions team for more information on our services and how we can support you and your child. Find a location near you! We serve Arizona, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, and Nebraska.
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.
