Back to School Tips for Children with Autism

If you have a child with autism, you know that the start of a new school year can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. On the one hand, it’s a chance for your child to learn new things and make new friends. On the other hand, it can be a big adjustment, especially if your child is starting in a new school. It sometimes poses a set of challenges that seem too overwhelming. Let’s walk through some of these hurdles, understand why the beginning of the year can be tough for a child with autism, and break down some practical back to school tips.  

Why Going Back to School is Hard for Kids with Autism  

The back-to-school time of year comes with its own challenges for every child. For a child with autism, it can be even more challenging. When we nurture a supportive and understanding environment, we can lighten their load, making the transition back to school less daunting and more enjoyable.   

What makes starting school so hard?  

Bullying 

We’d love to say that school is always a safe and welcoming place, but sadly, this isn’t always the case. Kids with autism sometimes stand out from their peers due to their unique behavior, or interests. Unfortunately, this difference can make them a target for bullying. That kind of unwarranted attention can impact their emotional and social wellness. As parents, we need to prepare our children to navigate such situations with resilience and confidence.   

Sensory Sensitivities 

Imagine the buzz of fluorescent lights sounded like a rock concert in your ears, or the gentle cotton of your t-shirt felt like sandpaper on your skin. For many children with autism, sensory experiences can be amplified to an overwhelming degree. This means the everyday school environment, with its bustling corridors and buzzing classrooms, can sometimes be too much. Recognizing and understanding these sensory sensitivities is the first step in helping kids create coping strategies — like finding quiet corners to retreat to or using sensory aids to help them focus amidst the chaos.  

Learning the Social Dance 

Just like learning a new dance is confusing for someone who isn’t much of a dancer, understanding social cues and participating in group activities can confuse kids with autism. Starting a conversation or taking turns might not come naturally to them. The playground is a challenging stage to perform on for them. With patient guidance, we can help them learn the steps one at a time, gradually building their confidence to engage in the social dance of the school environment.  

Communicating  

Communication is like a bridge connecting us to others, but for children with autism, building this bridge can sometimes be an uphill battle. They might find it challenging to articulate their thoughts or understand their classmates’ and teachers’ verbal and non-verbal messages. This, at times, can lead to moments of frustration and anxiety. Encouraging open communication and understanding at home can be a great start to help them build strong, sturdy bridges that allow for an easy flow of conversations at school.  

Back-to-School Tips for Children with Autism 

Because you anticipate the challenges, thinking of how to support the transition might have your stomach in knots. But don’t worry. We’ve got your back with some easy-to-follow, relatable, and encouraging tips to ease those nerves! Here’s how you can create a welcoming path for your child as they step into the new school year:  

1. Take a school tour 

Imagine stepping into a new place. Everything is unfamiliar, and you don’t know what lies around the corner – a bit unsettling, right? Now, think what a little preview could do! A friendly tour of the school before it begins can be an excellent ice-breaker for your child. They can familiarize themselves with the layout, different classrooms, and the faces they will see daily. It’s like a sneak peek into a movie they are about to star in!  

2. Crafting a Morning Routine 

Mornings can be a whirlwind, but establishing a routine can turn that whirlwind into a gentle breeze. Help your child create a morning rhythm to make them feel secure and ready to face the day. Picture it as a comforting morning dance, a series of steps that glide them right into the school day with grace and ease. And remember, practice makes perfect – start this dance a few weeks before school starts.  

3. Pack a Comfort Buddy 

A small sensory item tucked into their backpack can help them calm their nerves. It might be a favorite action figure, a snuggly weighted blanket, or a quirky fidget toy; these little comfort items can be reassuring amidst the bustling school environment.   

4. Creating a 'Get to Know Me' Guide 

Create a page that outlines your child’s strengths, areas where they might need a little support, and the accommodations that would help them shine and send it with your child to school. Share this guide with the school staff so they’re better equipped to cheer your child on.  

5. Fostering Teacher Partnerships 

Building a strong bond with your child’s teacher is like creating a support team for your child. Regular chats about your child’s progress and needs fosters a nurturing network that can adapt and grow with your child. Don’t shy away from discussing your child’s unique needs, sensory breaks, or specific communication supports.   

6. Embrace the Help around You 

Remember, asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a step towards building a fortress of support for your child. Don’t hesitate to contact the teacher, school counselor, or even external professionals. You can also ask other parents for advice. They may be able to share what has worked for their child and help you learn the ins and outs of your child’s school.   

Starting right 

As we embark on the new school year, it’s natural to feel both excitement and a touch of nervousness.  

Remember, you are already supporting your child as a parent, and you’re not alone. The upcoming school year is a blank canvas ready to be painted with new learnings, friendships, and growth opportunities for your child. With some planning and making the most of helpful tips, you can and will guide your child to a successful and fulfilling school year.  

Circle Care Services provides ABA therapy to hundreds of families. Contact us to start ABA today. Circle Care can help you and your family successfully transition back to school and equip you and your child with behavioral and social skills to serve them for the rest of their lives. Call us for a consultation or sign up for more tips and information.