Making School Transportation Easier for Autistic Children

By Brittany Juban, Ph.D., LABA, BCBA-D

[This column was published in the West Springfield Republican on September 19, 2025.]   

Transporting to and from school can be one of the biggest transitions in a child’s day. For autistic children and children with other developmental disabilities, taking school transportation may present unique challenges. Crowded spaces, loud noises, long wait times, and unpredictable schedules can all contribute to making school transportation stressful. If you are the parent or caregiver of an autistic child, consider the following suggestions to help set your child up for success when using school transportation.

Communicate with the school and transportation staff
Inform the driver and school staff about your child’s needs, strengths, and any strategies that help (e.g., preferred reinforcers and when/how to deliver them, communication modalities, visual aids). Gather information about what type of vehicle your child will be riding in, as well as anticipated ride times and additional supports available to your child. Some children may benefit from sitting in a particular seat or riding with a sibling or peer buddy. Knowing what supports are available ahead of time can help everyone feel more prepared. 

Prepare your child with visual supports or social stories
Just as with other new experiences, social stories can be a powerful tool. Use pictures, drawings, or simple written steps to show what will happen when riding on school transportation: waiting, boarding the vehicle, sitting, listening to the driver, and arriving at school. Reviewing the story each morning can ensure predictability and comfort.

Provide comfort items or sensory supports
For children sensitive to noise, headphones or ear defenders can help. A small fidget toy or weighted lap pad may also make sitting still for an extended period of time easier. Always check with the school to ensure that these items are allowed.

Plan for reinforcement
Some children may be more receptive to riding in the vehicle if they know a favorite activity or treat is waiting when they arrive at school or at home. Others may benefit from praise and encouragement during each step of the process. Consult with your child’s behavior specialist about which reinforcement strategies will work best.

Keep the routine consistent
Autistic children often thrive on routine. Whenever possible, keep pick-up and drop-off times, seating arrangements, and transitions the same. If a change is coming, such as a substitute driver or altered schedule, prepare your child ahead of time with a clear explanation.

School transportation can be difficult, but with preparation and collaboration, it can also become an opportunity for independence and growth. By taking proactive steps, parents and caregivers can help make school transportation safer, calmer, and more successful for their child. For guidance specific to your child, please contact a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst, or BCBA, for consultation.


Brittany Juban, Ph.D., LABA, BCBA-D, is Director of Clinical Services and Training at May Institute. She can be contacted at bjuban@mayinstitute.org.

About May Institute
May Institute is a nonprofit organization that is a national leader in the field of applied behavior analysis and evidence-based interventions, serving autistic individuals and individuals with other developmental disabilities, brain injury, and neurobehavioral disorders. Founded 70 years ago, we provide a wide range of exceptional educational and rehabilitative services across the lifespan. For more information, call 800.778.7601 or visit www.mayinstitute.org.