How to Ease Children with Disabilities Back into School Routines

Often, children with disabilities thrive off having set schedules and routines. So, it’s no surprise that the transition back to school can cause major stress and anxiety for special needs students. Since a change of routine is bound to happen during this time, preparing for that is essential to easing the transition come September.

Let’s look at five back-to-school transitional tips that will ease children with disabilities into their new school routines.

5 Back to School Transition Tips for Children with Disabilities

Frequently Discuss What Your Child Can Expect in the Upcoming Year

As simple as this tip may be, it will also be one of the most effective. By frequently bringing up the upcoming school year, your child will be able to recognize that the change will be occurring and have time to adapt to their new routine.

Begin the Transition Early

Slowing integrating school back into your child’s schedule will ease the transition and prepare them for the upcoming change in their daily routine. Throughout the last month of summer, waking your child up at school times and going over what they can expect during a typical school day will help with the adjustment. Also, bringing your child to school events, such as Open Houses or tours, will alleviate their stress of the unknown.

Go Over Their Daily Schedule

Once you obtain your child’s daily school schedule, regularly going over it will be vital to their back-to-school transition. If you’re unable to get the exact schedule, create a broad overview of classes and activities they can expect throughout their day.

Start a Count Down

Creating a calendar count down is another excellent way to ensure that your child is aware and prepared for the upcoming school year. Not only will crossing the date off every morning appeal to your child’s desire for a routine, but it also makes for a fun activity to create the calendar together.

Connect with Your Child’s Teachers & Therapists

For children with disabilities that are starting at a new school, getting to know their teachers and therapists before the first day can help them feel more comfortable and cope better during this transitional time. If meeting with their teachers or therapists isn’t possible, showing photos of them and sharing their job specialties will make your child feel more at ease.

How The Deron School Can Help

Since 1967, The Deron School has offered a state-approved private school program and services tailored to your child’s needs. If you believe that your child would benefit from our wide array of resources and services, don’t hesitate to reach out to our leadership team with any admission inquiries.