08/11/2025
6 Back-to-School Tips from a Speech Therapist!
1. Start routines 1–2 weeks early
Children thrive on predictable routines. Gradually adjust wake-up, meal, and bedtime schedules to match the school routine so the transition is smoother.
🗣 Speech Tip: Use language like “First we brush teeth, then we read a book” to build sequencing skills and help your child understand what to expect.
2. Use a visual schedule
Visuals help children process transitions more easily, especially if they have trouble with verbal instructions. You can print out icons or draw a simple routine chart together.
🗣 Speech Tip: Point to each step and say it aloud (e.g., “Get dressed,” “Pack backpack”) to build vocabulary and understanding of order.
3. Practice social phrases at home
Help your child feel confident in school settings by practicing everyday phrases they’ll use with peers and teachers.
“Hi, my name is ___.”
“Can I play with you?”
“I need help, please.”
🗣 Speech Tip: Use role-play at home with dolls, stuffed animals, or you playing “teacher.”
4. Label school supplies together
As you organize for the year, talk through each item: “This is your glue stick… these are your crayons.” Let your child repeat the words or find the items as you name them.
🗣 Speech Tip: This helps with vocabulary development, especially for classroom materials they may not have used all summer.
5. Read back-to-school books
Books are a great way to introduce emotions, routines, and expectations in a low-pressure way.
📚 Suggested titles:
The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney
First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg
🗣 Speech Tip: Pause and ask questions like “How do you think she feels?” or “What do you think will happen next?” to build narrative and comprehension skills.
6. Talk about emotions and coping strategies
Use simple, concrete words to describe feelings: “You might feel nervous, excited, or a little scared, and that’s okay!”
🗣 Speech Tip: Use a feelings chart or draw faces together. Practice calming strategies like deep breaths, hugs, or squeezing a fidget toy. This builds emotional vocabulary and self-regulation.
