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Transitioning into a new school is a considerable milestone for any child, but for autistic children and young people this can be particularly challenging. As a parent or carer, it might feel daunting to find the best ways to support your child during this significant change. Caudwell Children are dedicated to supporting families, offering invaluable advice and techniques to help make life easier.
Here are some tips to help your autistic child adjust to school life.
Start Early and Prepare Gradually
Start preparation for the transition as early as possible, this allows your child plenty of time to adjust to the idea of going to school.
• Visit Your Child’s School: Arrange to visit the school at least once with your child before they start, to familiarise them with their new environment.
• Meet Key Staff and Teachers: Where possible, meet any key members of staff or teachers who will be involved with their transition.
• Visual Supports: Visual Supports can help your child understand what will be happening during the transition. Use pictures and videos of the school and classrooms to help your child visualise where they will be.
Create a Social Stories
Social stories are short narratives with pictures explaining what to expect in specific situations. These can bring clarity and understanding to potentially anxiety-inducing situations. Create a social story to help your child understand what to expect in their new school, such as making new friends, following classroom rules, and asking for help.
Develop a Consistent Routine
Establish a morning and evening routine leading up to the school day. Consistency helps reduce anxiety and provides a sense of security.
• Morning Routine: Tasks include, brushing teeth, getting dressed and having breakfast.
• School Routine: Walk through what a typical school day will look like, including breaks and after-school activities.
• Evening Routine: Tasks include, downtime, homework, evening meal and getting ready for bed.
Use Visual Schedules
Visual schedules can help children understand and structure their day, and can include pictures of symbols representing different parts of their school day, such as lessons and breaks. Also consider marking on a calendar the day the transition is going to take place and encourage your child to count down to that day.
Communicate with your Child’s School
Ensure you keep a good level of communication with school staff. Provide them with information about your child’s strengths and needs. This relationship can lead to more effective support strategies tailored to your child. Establish a system for regular updates between you and the teachers to monitor your child’s progress. If you notice that the school is not addressing specific behaviours appropriately or is not using the communication methods your child is familiar with, bring this to the attention of the relevant staff member or teacher and arrange a meeting.
Prepare for Sensory Needs
School environments can be overwhelming with their sensory stimuli. Prepare a sensory plan to help your child cope with these challenges:
• Sensory Breaks: Discuss with the school the possibility of sensory breaks for your child.
• Quiet Spaces: Identify quiet areas where your child can retreat if they feel overwhelmed.
• Sensory Items: Provide sensory items like fidget toys, ear defenders, or weighted cushion, if needed.
Seek Support Groups
Join support groups or connect with other parents/carers of autistic children. Sharing experiences and advice can provide additional strategies and emotional support.
• Local Groups: Look for local parent support groups.
• Online Communities: Engage in online forums and communities for parents of autistic children.
• Connect with the SENCO: The Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) at your child’s school is a key resource. Collaborate with them to ensure your child’s needs are met.
Be Patient and Flexible
Understand that every child’s transition is unique. Be patient and ready to adapt strategies based on your child’s responses and needs.
Caudwell Children’s Change and Transition Workshop
This workshop will provide you and your family with advice about strategies and support that can help during key life transitions, including changes in their school life.
Transitioning to school is a major step for any child, especially for autistic children. With careful preparation, open communication, and a supportive approach, families can help their autistic children navigate this new chapter successfully. Caudwell Children’s guidance emphasises the importance of personalised support and understanding, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Remember that every autistic child is different, so while these tips can be helpful, they might not work for everyone.
For more information about our workshops please click here.