As the dog days of summer loom over us, it beckons with it a cry from parents across the country as the realization sets in that the first day of school is just around the corner.
Somehow this time of year never gets easier, always chaotic and stressful for everyone heading back to school, but this is especially true for families and children with Autism. While this “back to school with autism 101 checklist” will make life easier for them, it also can be helpful for neurotypical kids who may find back to school difficult as well.
So here are some basic practical tips to help students and parents navigate the back to school circus.
- PLAN AHEAD! This may seem to just make common sense, but those of us with even the best of intentions can find there are just not enough hours in the day, especially with all of the unpredictable things that can come up in a regular day. Give you and your child at least two weeks to prepare.
- Start your child off with a social story that includes any new people he will be interacting with on a regular day at school, (staff are usually more than happy to email pictures and helpful schedule information if you give them enough heads up), any locations that will be new to them, and any other big changes you can anticipate ahead of time. If the school allows, a tour with your child of a new school or classroom can be helpful.
- If your child has a different sleep schedule during the summer, start them a couple of weeks ahead of time to get back to their school year routine. Start with small increments each night so that it is not too overwhelming of a change for them or the family.
- If your child will be wearing different types of clothing that may not be as comfortable as those worn during vacation, slowly work back up to what they will need to be wearing at school. For our students with sensory issues, this can be a huge adjustment. You can also incorporate this into your social story.
If your child has a new teacher, set up an appointment with him or her to meet with your family prior to the first day of school. Again, with enough head’s up they should be more than willing to meet with you. Remember the two weeks prior to school will be stressful and chaotic for them as well.
Hopefully with these very basic tips you and your family can have an easier transition into the new school year with as little disruption as possible. As always, the more your child knows, the better. We at Turning Pointe wish everyone a smooth and successful beginning of the new school year. Until next year summer!
