The transition from summer break to the schoolyear can be challenging for any child, but for children diagnosed with autism, it often comes with added layers of anxiety, sensory sensitivities, and a need for predictability. As an ABA company dedicated to supporting neurodiverse learners, we understand how critical it is to plan ahead and create a supportive environment.
Here are some expert-backed tips to help make the back-to-school season smoother for both you and your child.
A pre-school visit can ease anxiety and build familiarity. If possible, schedule a walk- through of the school before it starts. Let your child explore the classroom, meet their teacher, and locate key areas like the cafeteria, restroom, and library.
Pro Tip: Take pictures during the visit and use them to create a social story or visual schedule at home.
Summer often brings a break in academic structure. Ease back into learning with engaging, play-based activities. Reinforce basic skills like writing their name, reading simple books, or practicing classroom routines like raising a hand or lining up.
Some children benefit from having a small kit of calming items in their backpack. This might include noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, a stress ball, or alaminated card with coping strategies.
ABA Tip: Work with your child’s therapistto introduce reinforcement strategies to teach your childwhen and how to appropriately ask for or use their comfort items.
Strongcollaboration with teachers, aides, and therapists is essential. Share yourchild’s IEP, behavior intervention plan (BIP), communication methods, and anystrategies that work well at home. Don't hesitate to advocate for consistencyacross environments.
Consider: Providing a short “AboutMe” sheet that outlines your child’s strengths,
challenges, and motivators.
Talkwith your BCBA or ABA therapistabout setting goals for the schoolyear; both academic and behavioral. Whether it's improving transitions, enhancing peer interaction, or increasing taskindependence, ABA strategies can help break these into manageable steps.
The first few weeks may include meltdowns orsetbacks, and that’s okay. Focus on progress,not perfection. Celebrate even small victories, like getting on the bus withoutprotest or completing morning routines independently.
Finally, Back-to-school season can be overwhelming, but with preparation,structure, and support, it can also be atime of growth. If you needindividualized strategies or support during this transition, our team of ABAprofessionals is just a phone call away.
