How to Handle Burnout as a Parent of a Child in ABA Therapy

Being a parent of a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is very rewarding. Yet, it can be stressful at the same time, as you need to balance your child’s needs with that of yourself and the rest of your family.

A parent’s schedule is typically packed to the brim as it is, but when your child also gets applied behavior analysis (ABA therapy) treatment, that can add another layer of complication to the matter.

Parents are the rock for their children, the foundation of support that they need on an everyday basis. But, parents can only be as good for their children as they are for themselves.

That’s why self-care is so important, regardless of what your child’s developmental abilities and needs are.

In this article, we’ll discuss how to handle burnout as a parent of a child in ABA therapy.

Table Of Contents

Establish Routines

Children on the autism spectrum often thrive when they can predict what’s ahead of them. That’s why it’s often suggested that parents help establish clear daily routines, so their children will always know what to expect.

Routines are actually great for the whole family, and can help parents to avoid burnout.

ABA therapy could take up a large portion of the day, but it’s also important to incorporate other family activities into the daily and weekly schedules. For instance, make sure that you are setting time aside for family meals and activities on a regular basis.

Take the time to engage with your children in activities that are fun for everyone that aren’t related to ABA therapy at all. This will help to strengthen the bond between you, bringing everyone joy.

Get Support

The saying “It takes a village to raise a child” is very relevant to parents of children with ASD. Having a solid support network is one of the best ways to handle burnout as a parent of a child in ABA therapy.

This support network can have many different people who can help with many different things.

It first involves your spouse or partner, if you have one. Make sure that you are sharing everyday responsibilities with each other so that one person doesn’t have to shoulder too much of the burden.

Other family members and close friends may be able to pitch in with some of this, such as helping with meals from time to time or even watching your child if they can while you run errands or take a break.

Also consider joining a support group for parents who have children with autism or special needs. You may be able to gain some insight from them on how to best handle everything that’s on your plate.

Turn to the Professional Team

Don’t forget that your child’s ABA therapy team is also there to help and support you. The BCBAs who lead the team have plenty of experience dealing with parents and can provide tips and guidance on what they’ve seen work in the past.

Being integrated into your child’s ABA therapy treatment sessions can also help to relieve some stress at home. When you learn how the therapy is being administered and receive training on the strategies that are used, you will be better prepared to provide the support your child needs at home, which can make it a more pleasing experience.

It also may be beneficial to consult with other professionals such as parent coaches or family therapists to help you manage everything.

Practice Self-Care

While it might feel like it at times, your life cannot be solely focused on your child who has autism. Yes, they often need a good amount of your support and attention, but you can only be good for them if you’re being good to yourself.

Practicing self-care is one of the most important things you can do and one of the most effective ways to handle burnout as a parent of a child in ABA therapy.

Take some time for yourself each day to do something that’s just for you, whether that be reading a book, watching a TV show or engaging in a hobby.

De-stress by exercising and practicing mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing or meditation.

Exactly how you practice self-care isn’t as important as the fact that you actually practice it. Find what works for you, and make sure you’re incorporating some aspect of it into your daily routine.

Blue Gems ABA Helps Support Parents of Children with Autism

Being a parent of a child in ABA therapy can be challenging and stressful. By following some of the tips above, you can handle burnout better, and potentially avoid it altogether.

At Blue Gems ABA, we help to support children with autism and their parents. Our team of experienced BCBAs has years of experience in this realm, and our focus is to help children with autism grow while ensuring their parents are part of the process, too.

To learn more, please contact us today.