School will soon start again. Parents and caregivers of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) can take a few steps now to get ready for a new school year.
A little planning can go a long way to reduce stress and set children up for success.
Person Centered Services has some tips to make the transition back to school easier.
Start routines early. Get a jump start with sleep schedules, mealtimes, and morning routines a week or two before school starts. Practicing the school-day schedule ahead of time can ease anxiety and make the first day feel more familiar.
If possible, visit the school before the first day. Arrange a visit to the school, classroom, cafeteria, or bus stop. Seeing the environment beforehand can help your child feel more comfortable.
Create a visual schedule. Many children benefit from visual supports such as pictures, icons, calendars, or a checklist of daily activities, including getting ready for school, after-school routines, and bedtime.
Connect with teachers and support staff. Introduce yourself to teachers, aides, therapists, and other support staff early. Share information about your child’s strengths, communication style, sensory needs, and strategies that work well at home.
Practice self-advocacy skills. If they are able, encourage your child to practice requesting help, communicating needs, or expressing preferences. Building self-advocacy skills can increase confidence and independence.
Prepare for sensory needs. School environments are noisy, crowded, and overwhelming for some. Consider packing sensory tools that help your child self-regulate, such as noise-reducing headphones, fidgets, or comfort items approved by the school.
Talk about changes and expectations. Discuss what to expect during the school day, including new teachers, classmates, transportation, or classroom routines. This is helpful for preparing for changes and transitions.
The transition back to school can be exciting and challenging for children with I/DD and their families. Preparation, communication, and flexibility can help create a positive start to the school year and support success all year long.
