What to do while you wait for ABA
Short answer: While you wait for ABA, keep your diagnosis and insurance paperwork in one folder, call each provider every few weeks and ask to be called for cancellations, try simple routines at home such as visual schedules, use speech, occupational or early intervention services if recommended, and keep a log to share at intake.
Waiting for ABA is hard. These steps can help you use the time and be ready when an opening comes.
Parent checklist: what to do while waiting for ABA
Use this checklist and check items off as you go:
- Put the diagnosis report, insurance card and authorization forms in one folder.
- Write down the best days and times for sessions.
- Note your child's strengths and the goals you care about most.
- Call each waitlist every few weeks and ask about cancellations.
- Update providers if your schedule or insurance changes.
- Ask about parent training before direct sessions start.
- Start speech, occupational therapy or early intervention if recommended.
- Keep a short behavior and skills log for intake.
- Connect with other parents or ask your pediatrician about support for you and siblings.
How do I stay organized on an ABA waitlist?
- Keep a folder with the diagnosis report, insurance details and authorization paperwork.
- Write down the best days and times for sessions.
- Note your child's strengths and the goals you care about most.
How do I stay active on the waitlist?
- Call each provider every few weeks.
- Ask to be called for cancellations.
- Update providers if your schedule or insurance changes.
What small routines can I try at home?
- Use simple visual schedules for daily routines.
- Offer choices between two options.
- Praise and reward small steps toward skills you want to see.
- Keep instructions short and clear.
Ask your child's team before trying anything that addresses serious behaviors.
What other services can help while we wait?
- Speech or occupational therapy, if recommended
- Early intervention for children under three
- School-based services for children age three and older
- Parent training groups, where available
How can I learn the basics before ABA starts?
- Ask providers about parent training before direct services start.
- Read materials from reputable autism organizations.
How do I look after myself while we wait?
- Connect with other parents.
- Ask your pediatrician about support for you and siblings.
- Take breaks when you can.
Why keep a log before ABA intake?
Write down behaviors you want to address, what happens before and after, and what helps. Share it with the ABA team at intake so the first assessment moves faster.
Frequently asked questions
Should I stop looking for providers if I am on a waitlist?
No. Joining several lists can shorten the wait.
Can I do ABA at home myself?
Parents can support skills with simple strategies, but formal ABA is delivered by trained professionals.
What if my child needs help with a crisis behavior now?
Contact your pediatrician or local crisis resources right away. Do not wait for an ABA opening for urgent safety concerns.
How Waitless helps
Waitless shows which ABA providers near you have openings now and connects you with the first available clinic.
This is general information. It does not replace professional advice.
For steps that often shorten the wait, see how to get ABA therapy faster. When you compare settings, read in-home vs center-based ABA.
Sources and check date
- Early intervention and school evaluation rights for children under and over age three.
- Reputable autism organization materials on parent support while waiting for services.
Checked October 11, 2026. Confirm details with your child's care team and your plan.
See which providers have openings now and how long waits are for your insurance.
Find ABA openings near you