09/02/2024
With many kids heading back to school this week I wanted to share my list of “back to school” recommendations:
1. **Start Early with Routines**: Begin adjusting bedtime, wake-up times, and daily routines a few days before school starts to help your child transition smoothly.
2. **Create a Visual Schedule**: Use a visual schedule to map out the school day, including morning routines, class transitions, and after-school activities. This can reduce anxiety by making the day predictable.
3. **Visit the School Ahead of Time**: Arrange a visit to the school before it starts. Walk through the schedule with your child, meet teachers, and locate important places like the classroom, cafeteria, and restrooms.
4. **Meet with Teachers and Support Staff**: Schedule a meeting with your child's teachers, aides, and support staff to discuss your child’s strengths, challenges, and any accommodations or modifications they might need.
5. **Prepare a Comfort Kit**: Pack a small kit with sensory tools or comfort items like fidget toys, noise-canceling headphones, or a weighted lap pad to help your child manage sensory overload during the school day.
6. **Practice Social Scenarios**: Role-play common school situations such as making friends, asking for help, or coping with overwhelming situations. This can build confidence and reduce anxiety.
7. **Label Everything**: Ensure all personal items, especially those used for self-regulation or sensory support, are clearly labeled with your child’s name to prevent loss.
8. **Set Up a Homework Station**: Create a quiet, organized space at home where your child can focus on homework. Include any tools or resources they might need, and establish a consistent homework routine.
9. **Plan for Transportation Needs**: Review and practice transportation arrangements, whether it’s walking, taking the bus, or carpooling. If possible, introduce your child to the bus driver or whoever will be involved in their daily commute.
10. **Establish Communication Channels**: Set up a clear communication system with the school, such as a daily or weekly report, to stay informed about your child’s progress and any concerns that may arise.
11. **Focus on Emotional Preparedness**: Encourage your child to express their feelings about returning to school. Offer reassurance and strategies for managing stress or anxiety, such as deep breathing exercises or using a stress ball.
12. **Reinforce Independence**: Gradually build your child’s independence in tasks like packing their backpack, organizing their school supplies, and managing their time. This promotes self-confidence and reduces stress.
13. **Reassess IEP or 504 Plans**: Review and update your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan to ensure it meets their current needs. Make sure any necessary accommodations are in place before the school year begins.
14. **Plan for the Unexpected**: Discuss potential changes or challenges your child might face during the school year, such as a substitute teacher or fire drill, and develop strategies to handle these situations calmly.
15. **Celebrate the Start of the School Year**: Mark the beginning of the school year with a special ritual or celebration that your child enjoys. This can help create positive associations with returning to school.
What are you doing to prepare for the start of the school year? 👇🏻
