• April 26, 2025
• Autism
• Evolution Supports Services
• 0 Comments

Starting a new school year can be exciting — but for children with autism, it can also feel overwhelming. Changes in routine, unfamiliar environments, and new social expectations can all create stress.
As a parent or caregiver, there’s a lot you can do to make the transition smoother, calmer, and more positive. Here’s how you can help your child feel ready and confident for school days ahead.

Before the First Day

1. Talk to the School Early

Reach out to your child’s teacher and support staff ahead of time. Share important information about your child’s strengths, communication style, sensory needs, and any known triggers.
Ask if you can schedule a classroom visit before school starts — even a short, casual visit can make the first official day feel much less intimidating.

2. Create a Social Story

Social stories are simple picture-based stories that describe what your child can expect at school — from riding the bus to meeting their teacher.
Use real pictures of the school, classroom, playground, and even teachers if possible. Keep the language positive and simple: “At school, I will sit on the carpet with my friends. I will raise my hand when I want to talk.”

3. Build a Visual Schedule

Visual schedules help children see what’s happening next, reducing anxiety and creating predictability.
Make a simple schedule that includes morning routines, school activities, and after-school plans. You can use icons, drawings, or photos. Review it together daily leading up to the first day.

4. Practice the Routine

Start practicing the school day routine a week or two before school starts.
Wake up at the school-day time, get dressed, eat breakfast, pack the backpack — even if you’re not leaving the house. This helps your child adjust to the rhythm of school mornings without added pressure.

5. Pack Comfort Items

If the school allows it, pack a small comfort item in your child’s backpack — something like a stress ball, a photo of your family, or a soft piece of fabric.
Having a familiar object nearby can be a huge source of comfort during uncertain moments.

On the First Day (and Beyond)

1. Stay Calm and Positive

Children pick up on our emotions. Even if you’re feeling nervous (which is totally normal!), try to project calm confidence. Use encouraging language: “You’re going to do great today. I can’t wait to hear about it!”

2. Use a Reward System

Set up a simple reward system for school success.
It could be as small as extra storytime at night, a favorite snack after school, or special time together. Celebrate effort — not just perfect behavior.

3. Communicate Daily

Create a quick, easy system to check in with teachers — even if it’s just a short daily note or a simple “smiley face/sad face” communication log.
This helps you stay in tune with how your child is feeling and allows you to address challenges early.

4. Give Grace for Rough Days

Even with the best preparation, tough days will happen. That’s okay. Focus on recovery rather than punishment.
Talk calmly about what was hard and brainstorm together about ways to make the next day better.

Additional Tips for Smooth School Transitions

• Label everything: backpack, lunchbox, jacket — visual consistency helps.
• Prep for sensory needs: Ask the school about quiet spaces, sensory tools, or noise-canceling headphones if needed.
• Teach simple coping strategies: deep breaths, squeezing a stress ball, or asking for a break.
• Stay consistent at home: predictable routines at home reinforce the security of daily structure.

Transitions take time — and that’s okay. Every small step your child takes toward independence and confidence at school is a victory.