Aba Field trip
Today’s ABA community outing wasn’t perfect, but it was progress. 💙
Tobias spent the first 40 minutes completely captivated by the dinosaur exhibit. Watching him light up made every bit of planning worth it.
Transitions are still incredibly hard for him. A new environment, the heat, and changing activities eventually became too much, and his body let us know. Outside, he found a little fox hole exhibit that became his safe place, but sharing that space in a busy public setting was difficult. We tried to make it to the splash pad to help him regulate, but we couldn’t get there before the meltdown began.
It’s easy for people to see the ending and miss everything that came before it.
Today he explored a brand-new place, tolerated the environment for an hour, experienced joy, and—one of my favorite moments—drank from a plastic water bottle for the very first time. 🎉
The biggest blessing was having his RBT by our side through it all. She supported Tobias every step of the way and supported me too. Having someone who understands him, helps us work through the hard moments, and celebrates the little victories right alongside us means more than I can put into words. 🥰
Progress isn’t measured by the absence of meltdowns. Sometimes it’s measured by the moments of wonder, the new skills, and staying just a little longer than last time.
We’ll keep trying. One outing at a time. 🦕❤️#
Taking a child with autism to a community outing can be both rewarding and demanding. In my own experience, preparing for such trips involves anticipating possible triggers, carefully planning breaks, and having supportive people around to help manage sensory overload or emotional overwhelm. Like Tobias, many children find fascination and comfort in specific exhibits or areas—dinosaurs often captivate with their size and mystery. Observing their wonder can be a powerful reminder of the progress made and the joy found in learning. Transitions remain one of the tougher parts of outings. Shifts from one activity to another, dealing with new environments, or encountering crowds can cause distress. I’ve found that identifying a “safe spot” or quiet area, as Tobias did with the fox hole exhibit, offers a much-needed refuge to regroup. Social stories and visual schedules can also prepare children for what to expect, helping ease anxiety around changes in routine. Bringing along favorite sensory tools or comfort items adds another layer of support. Celebrating small victories, like Tobias drinking from a plastic water bottle for the first time, is crucial. These achievements often mark important developmental steps and build confidence. Having a knowledgeable support person, such as an RBT, makes a significant difference. Their understanding and help during difficult moments allow caregivers to focus on nurturing positive experiences. Though meltdowns may still occur, viewing outings as chances for growth rather than perfection makes each trip meaningful. Every moment of joy, exploration, and resilience contributes to ongoing progress. As caregivers, remaining patient and hopeful—and embracing each outing one step at a time—helps build a foundation for continued success and happiness in community participation.