Back-to-School Transitions: Supporting Neurodivergent Children Transition Back to School
It’s that time of year! Back to school shopping, touring schools, attending open houses and meet-the-teacher events, and of course, making changes to your family’s routine. Back to school season can bring excitement and stress. While many neurotypical children struggle with changes in routine, neurodivergent children might experience these transitions more intensely. As someone who has always found transitions challenging, I can understand how overwhelming it can feel when a familiar routine suddenly changes. Here are some ways you can support your child to ensure that they have a smooth transition this school year, whether this is your child’s first time going to school or if they’ve been to school before!
Why Transitions Can Be Hard
Transitions can be hard because they are unpredictable. As your child is on summer break, their schedules may have adjusted with different sleep schedules, activities and expectations. Transitioning back to school means adjusting to new routines, new teachers, sensory environments, social expectations, and academic demands. For some children, the challenge isn’t the school building itself, it’s the fear of the unknown or the uncertainty of what comes next.
Ways Families Can Support a Smooth Transition
1. Start Preparing Early
A week of two before school starts, begin shifting bedtimes and wake-up routines. Practice what their daily morning routine will look like. Talk them through what school days are going to look like for them.
2. Use Visual Supports
Using sources like visual schedules can help reduce anxiety and uncertainty. Utilizing first/then statements and language also support this. This allows them to see what to expect in their environment.
3. Preview the environment
Tour the school your child will be attending, attend open houses and meet with your child’s teachers prior to the first day. Allow them to walk through the environment they’ll be in. This could even be practicing the commute to school if possible.
4. Validate Feelings About Change
Instead of saying “Oh, you’ll be fine! Don’t worry!”, you can say “It makes sense that a new classroom might be scary. Let’s talk about what we know so far and what we can prepare for”.
5. Build in Regulation Supports
If appropriate and allowed, having comfort items like a fidget toy can help regulate your child. In school, having movement breaks, quiet spaces, and communication supports available for your child.
How Educators and Caregivers Can Work Together
When attending open houses, share information before the school year starts. Talk about your child’s strengths or interests, triggers or stressors, and communication preferences. As an educator myself, I understand the importance of not making assumptions about a child’s needs as every child experiences transitions differently. The most effective supports begin with listening, observations, and cross team collaboration.
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