My name is Victoria Sheynis, and I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who works with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other behavioral challenges. The start of the school year can be a challenging time for children with ASD, and my goal is to help you make this transition as smooth as possible for your child.
Start Early Preparation
I recommend beginning discussions about the upcoming school year as early as possible. Gradually introduce the idea of returning to school through conversations, books, or social stories. This will help your child understand what to expect and reduce anxiety about the unknown.
Create a Visual Schedule
A visual schedule is an excellent way to structure your child’s day. Use pictures or icons to represent different activities, such as getting dressed, eating breakfast, going to school, and coming home. This visual support helps children understand and anticipate their daily routine.
Visit the School
I suggest organizing a visit to the school before the first day. This could include a walk through the classroom, meeting the teacher, and exploring school spaces such as the playground or cafeteria. Familiarizing your child with the new environment can significantly reduce their anxiety.
Practice the New Routine
Start practicing the new routine in advance. A few weeks before school starts, adjust your child’s sleep schedule, rehearse getting dressed, and go through the morning routine. This will help your child get accustomed to the new schedule, making the transition less stressful.
Use Social Stories
Social stories are simple narratives that explain what to expect in various situations. You can create a social story about returning to school, including details about the new class, teacher, and daily activities. Regularly reading this story can help your child feel more confident about the upcoming changes.
Involve the School Team
Collaborating with your child’s teachers and support staff is key to success. Share strategies that work at home, such as communication tools or sensory supports. Open communication with the school team ensures your child will receive the necessary support from day one.
Prepare for Sensory Needs
If your child has specific sensory needs, prepare a sensory toolkit that can be used at school. This might include noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, or a weighted blanket. Discuss with school staff how and when to use these tools to help your child stay calm and focused.
Discuss Any Changes
If significant changes are expected in the new school year, such as a new teacher or classroom, discuss these with your child in advance. Use visual aids, such as photos of the new teacher or classroom, to help your child get used to these changes.
Encourage Social Connections
If possible, arrange playdates or meet-ups with classmates before the school year begins. Familiar faces on the first day can provide comfort and reduce social anxiety.
Maintain a Positive Attitude and Support
Your attitude plays a crucial role in how your child perceives the start of the school year. Stay positive, offer encouragement, and celebrate small successes as your child adjusts to the changes. Remember, the transition may take time, and it’s okay to move at your child’s pace.
Remember, every child is unique, and the approach to preparation should be individualized. If you have any questions or need additional support, I’m always here to help!
