Tips for a Smooth Transition Back to School
As the school year approaches, it’s natural for kids to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. Here are some effective tips to help your child transition back to school with confidence and ease:
1. Reintroduce the School Routine
Start adjusting your child’s routine about one to two weeks before school begins. Gradually shift wake-up and meal times, as well as bedtime routines. While it doesn’t need to be strict, this transition helps ease them back into the typical term-time schedule, minimising any shocks to their system on the first day.
2. Validate Their Feelings
Acknowledge any feelings of anxiety about returning to school. Instead of saying, “You’ll be fine,” try, “I can see you’re feeling worried about going back to school. I’m here to listen if you’d like to talk about it.” Encourage them to share their worries and discuss potential solutions, ensuring they feel supported rather than dismissed.
3. Use Visual Supports
For children who benefit from visual aids, consider using social stories or books that address school anxiety. Websites like Twinkl and TeachersPayTeachers offer resources, while books such as Wemberley Worries and Hey Warrior can be great for younger children. Older kids might find The Awesome Autistic Go-To Guide helpful.
4. Practice Self-Regulation Strategies
If your child has worked with an Occupational Therapist (OT), revisit any self-regulation techniques they’ve learned. If not, experiment with strategies like noise-cancelling headphones, fidgets, or breathing exercises. Fun activities like humming songs or blowing bubbles can also serve as effective calming tools.
5. Support Mornings Before School
Mornings can be hectic, so offer support to help ease the transition. Whether it’s body doubling or providing hands-on assistance, be flexible with how much help your child needs each day. Remember, they’ll need their energy for the school day, so it’s okay to assist them in reserving their “spoons.”
Prepare for the morning the night before to reduce chances of things going wrong. A predictable, calm routine will help to keep everyone on track!
6. Plan for Separation
Create predictable routines for drop-offs to help ease separation anxiety. Consider establishing a special handshake or directly handing them over to their teacher. Consistency in drop-off and pick-up locations can also provide comfort.
7. Provide Social “Scripts”
Role-play social interactions to help your child feel more prepared. This can be done through written scripts or pictures, depending on their communication style. Scripts can help ease anxiety around social situations by giving them a reference point during interactions.
8. Offer Choices
Give your child a sense of control by allowing them to make choices regarding their school supplies, sensory tools, or preferred seating arrangements in the classroom. This empowerment can help alleviate anxiety.
9. Communicate with School Staff
Take the initiative to communicate your child’s specific needs to their teachers. If the school doesn’t provide a questionnaire, consider creating your own. Include information about your child’s strengths, interests, and areas where they may need support. This proactive approach can help teachers better understand and support your child’s needs.
Transitioning back to school can be a challenging time, but with the right support and preparation, your child can face the new year with confidence. Remember, open communication and understanding are key to helping them navigate this important change.
