Back-to-school time is here - and with it, comes the anxiety and nerves many children face returning to school. But for children with ASD, a new school year may cause paralyzing fear. Between new teachers, unfamiliar classrooms, and schedule changes, a new term might overwhelm your little ones.
If your child is having trouble adjusting to the new school year, here are some tips to help:
Create a social story: Social stories are excellent tools to help your child adjust to new environments. A social story helps children on the spectrum by presenting behaviors through visual cues (i.e. pictures.) You can make your own social story, or download one from our website. We offer social stories about holidays, life events, and more!
Talk to your child frequently: Tell your child what they can expect during the upcoming school year! This might include, but isn’t limited to: their schedule, their teachers, and their classes.
Cross days off your calendar: Some children may have anxiety about when the school year begins. Simply crossing days off the calendar may help your child understand when school begins.
Create a morning routine: Several weeks before school starts, wake your child up a little earlier so they’re better acclimated to their new wake-up routine before school begins. Do a few “run-throughs” so your child knows what to expect before leaving the house.
Organize a tour: Call your school to organize a tour before the term begins. Even if your child’s teacher is not available to meet, you can still familiarize them with the building. On the tour, visit the main office, bathrooms, cafeteria, gym, library, playground, and any room your child may spend time in during the coming year! If possible, take pictures and incorporate them into a social story that you and your child can review during the summer.
Meet the teacher: If possible, try and introduce your child to their teacher. Helping to deepen the connection the connection between your child and instructor beforehand can calm their anxiety - and yours!
Write a letter: This note should detail your child’s strengths, weaknesses, possible sensory issues, dietary restrictions, and favorite reinforcers. Be sure to include things that are fun and unique about your child! This letter should be one to two pages long, and be available to anyone who comes into regular contact with your child. This includes teachers, aides, principals, assistant principals, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech therapists, physical education instructors, music teachers, etc.
Have a behavioral plan: If needed, make sure your child’s behavioral plan is in place before the start of school. You can read more about behavioral plans on our blog.
Meet the bus driver: Similar to the teacher, helping your child familiarize with new faces can help. The bus driver is no different! Building this connection can help ensure your child's start and end of a school day is easier.
Have a favorite item: Pack your child’s favorite sensory item in their backpack. If they become overwhelmed, this object can offer them a great deal of comfort.
Have a great year, everyone!
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