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Real members of MyAutismTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
Greenville, VA
January 5
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A MyAutismTeam Member

We have thought about it, but keep working with the school daily on behavior issues, he is also in a public school with a full classroom of children. Mornings go well, afternoons are a hit and miss we worked with the school aids/resource worker changed his afternoons for more breaks from the class due to burnout and issues, ive heard it isn't uncommon if you are able to only do half days and it works for your family.
Does the school have a sensory room in place and aids to help work along with you ?

January 6
A MyAutismTeam Member

Full-day programs for children with autism provide more social, academic, and therapeutic intensity (e.g., improved skills, better self-concepts), while half-day options are ideal for building stamina, reducing sensory overwhelm, and accommodating external therapies. The choice depends on a child's stamina, specific developmental needs, and ability to handle long, stimulating environments

Autism services in Greenville, VA, include specialized in-home ABA therapy, diagnostic assessments, and developmental support for children and families. Providers like Advanced Autism Services and Behavioral Framework offer personalized care, while regional resources like the Virginia Autism Resource Center and UVA Center for Clinical Services provide broader, evidence-based support.
Autism Services Near Greenville, VA
ABA Therapy (Applied Behavior Analysis):
Advanced Autism Services: Provides personalized, one-on-one in-home ABA therapy for children.
Behavioral Framework: Offers in-home ABA therapy for children up to age 21, focusing on individualized plans, feeding therapy, and caregiver collaboration.
Diagnostic and Clinical Services:
Sheila C. Johnson Center for Clinical Services (UVA): Located nearby, offering individual/family therapy, school support consultation, and RUBI parent training.
Virginia Center for Autism and Related Developmental Disorders (VCARDD): Specializes in diagnosing and treating neurodevelopmental disorders.
Behavioral Framework Assessments: Provides autism assessments in the Virginia area.
Support and Resources:
Virginia Autism Resource Center (VARC): Offers statewide resources, education, and training to improve the lives of individuals with ASD.
Autism Society of Northern Virginia (ASNV): Provides Transition POINTS support, resources, and help finding services.
Autism FIRST: Offers hybrid, family-centered support, including early intervention (ages 2-6), academic support (grades K-6), and social skills groups.

January 5
MyAutismTeam

Is your child attending school half-day due to behavioral challenges?

Yes, some children with autism do start with half-day schedules, especially when beginning new programs or therapies. This is sometimes called a "slow start" approach.

One MyAutismTeam member shared that when their son began ABA therapy, he started with Show Full Answer

Is your child attending school half-day due to behavioral challenges?

Yes, some children with autism do start with half-day schedules, especially when beginning new programs or therapies. This is sometimes called a "slow start" approach.

One MyAutismTeam member shared that when their son began ABA therapy, he started with half days and gradually added hours until he could manage a full 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. schedule five days a week. The transition took about a month, with lots of tears and resistance at first, but eventually their child came to love school.

This gradual approach can help children adjust to new environments and routines without becoming overwhelmed. It allows the school and therapists to build up your child's tolerance and skills over time.

If your child is on a half-day schedule, it might be worth discussing with the school:
- What specific behaviors are challenging
- What supports or accommodations might help extend the day
- Whether alternatives exist for particularly stressful parts of the day (like recess)
- If additional services like speech therapy, social skills training, or a one-on-one aide could help

The goal is usually to work toward a full day as your child develops coping strategies and the school implements appropriate supports.

January 5

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