Dont Stress The TEST

So, you passed your RBT exam , made it through training , and have already spent a few days shadowing your new client….tadaaa ! Congratulations! Just like that you're ready for your first official session as a RBT.

By now your BCBA should have given you access to your new clients binder or behavior plan. This is essential to your new daily life as an RBT. Make sure you take the time to study and ask questions (ideally before you meet the client) to better your understanding of the client program. Of course you will not be expected to know all the programs and interventions on the first day , but the sooner you get a grasp of your role, the smoother sessions will go and the more comfortable you will feel running the program.

Now this may seem like a no-brainer , but one of the most important things you should do on the first day is familiarize yourself with the client and family. Ask about household routine, rules, and get clear answers about the family's expectations of you. It may be helpful to get a quick layout of the house , whether the family prefers shoes on or off , sibling names, and areas where the client seems most comfortable. More than likely you will be in the home multiple times per week, therefore, it is best to build a professional rapport with those who live there and to always respect the customs associated with different households.

As the new kid on the block you can pretty much expect to have all sorts of “testing” behaviors thrown at you. For example, your new kiddo may decide that on the very first day he or she wants to show you all the problem behaviors you just read about in his or her binder. Some kids will test boundaries and see what you will allow during sessions. Don’t worry- this is not your fault and does not mean the child doesn't like you. Nor does this mean he or she will continue these behaviors long term. Although this can be intimidating to deal with in your first session, it is very important to remain firm in your stance and follow all the protocols laid out by your BCBA while seeking support if needed.

In the first session, your goal should always be to pair and build rapport with the client. Be mindful of the words you use with the client- avoid giving demands and focus on play. If you introduce demands too early, your client may not respond in the best way. When you feel comfortable giving a demand, start with the clients' mastered goals instead of jumping into acquisition targets. Be aware of how your kiddo likes to be spoken to. Some learners need a whole band to play after a correct response while others will be fine with a simple high-five. All of this matters as it will help you determine how to get the most out of your kiddo come table time (direct instruction).

If you are nervous about taking data, try and focus on data collection that you are most comfortable with. Maybe it is just writing down any mands for early learners. Or maybe it is taking frequency on a behavior. Reviewing learning plans before the session will also help you in remembering what data you should be collecting.

A few tips to end: Expect the unexpected and understand that some variables will be out of your control . Be flexible and willing to learn from the people who are with your client the most as they may know reinforcements or routines that are new to you. Dress like you do not mind getting dirty but always professional and comfortable, especially for more active kiddos. Understand that what works for other therapists may not work for you and that is OK. It takes time to learn the kiddo for yourself and what works for the two of you. The first day should be all about fun, so let the kiddo lead the way , do what they do , and always try to leave the house on a good note.

By: Learning My Way ABA, RBT