3 Tips to Support Your Child’s Transition Back to School

Summer is winding down and the school year has just begun. This time can bring changes, excitement, stress, and questions, so we’ve come up with a few tips to support you and your child as they transition back to school. 

Keep it consistent but remain flexible. 

Consistent routines create a sense of structure and predictability for kids, especially neurodivergent learners. Research shows that routines have a positive impact on mental health by promoting stability, supporting emotional regulation, and strengthening family bonds. 

At the same time, it’s also important to allow for flexibility when needed. For example, if you notice that your child masks at school and tends to have more frequent or intense meltdowns at the end of the week, it may be beneficial to leave some afternoons open to allow for downtime instead of activities. Maintaining this balance of consistency and flexibility can support meeting your child where they are.

Start or end the day with regulating activities. 

Adding regulating activities into your child’s morning or evening routine can promote emotional stability and help kids feel a sense of control. These activities are especially supportive for kids who present with sensory differences. Some of our go-to tools include animal walks, spending time in a swing or hammock, crashing into a crash pad, pushing and pulling, and any other rocking or rhythmic movements that target the proprioceptive system. These activities help kids prepare for or unwind after a day of intense sensory stimulation in the school environment. 

If possible, set up a familiar space or cozy corner at home where your child can retreat when they need a break. Kids also learn co- and self-regulation from adults, so it may be helpful to model awareness of your own energy levels and needs to support your child’s interoception development. Additionally, check in with your child about their energy levels. We like to use the Energy Meter from Autism Level Up to support this learning. 

Incorporate a transitional object or a representational object. 

Transitional objects (like a small stuffed animal or a handmade bracelet) are those that provide a sense of comfort and safety when navigating new or unfamiliar environments. Representational objects help kids anticipate an upcoming activity, such as a number 2 card to represent math class. Research shows that both are supportive in managing difficult transitions. To make it even more meaningful, try creating a transitional object with your child that they can carry with them throughout the day. 

We hope these tips support you and your child as they navigate their transition back to school this fall. 

References

AOTA. Transitions Considerations. (n.d.). https://www.aota.org/-/media/corporate/files/practice/back-to-school/transitions.pdf

Twinley, R. (2024). Neurodivergent affirming practice in occupational therapy: Scoping review and qualitative content analysis of the literature. Neurodiversity, 2. https://doi.org/10.1177/27546330241301740

Wondirful Play. (2024, September 2). Autism Routines. Wondirfulplay.com. https://www.wondirfulplay.com/blog/autism-routines