Preparing for a Successful Transition
For many children with developmental delays, routines, and predictability are essential for managing daily life. Some strategies to assist in a smooth transition back to school include:- Social Stories and Visual Schedules: Using personal narratives and visual schedules can help prepare your child for new experiences and routines by explaining what to expect clearly and visually.
- Gradual Transition: If possible, gradually introduce new end-of-summer routines. For example, introduce your before-school home routine. This may include waking up, brushing teeth, eating breakfast, getting dressed, etc. Practicing new routines will help minimize anxiety and provide time to adjust.
- Communication with Teachers: Establish open lines of communication with teachers and related service providers. Sharing insights into your child’s preferences, triggers, and strengths can facilitate a supportive school experience, where understanding is met.
- Spend Time At School: A couple of weeks before school starts, visit the campus. Some teachers may be available for a meet-and-greet, where your child can visit their new classroom and meet their teacher. If the school has a playground, allow your child to explore and acclimate to the environment through playtime activities.
- Dress Rehearsal: New shoes? New clothes? For individuals with sensory issues, a new wardrobe may take time to adjust to. Break in new shoes and clothing a couple of weeks before school begins to allow your child time to adapt to new and different textures. Depending on how much routine your child needs, it may also be beneficial to use a new lunchbox or backpack several times before the first day of school.