Let the new term commence

We've put together a support pack filled with advice and support to guide you and your child through the back to school transition.

Preparing your child for school

As the holidays come to a close, ease your child back into the new term by re-establishing routines and preparing them for learning. From talking to your child to limiting screen time and making your mornings run smoother, explore our top tips below.

1. Discuss what will happen on your child’s first day at school, including what time they will wake up, when they will set off and who their teacher is going to be.

2. Talk through what they learnt last year and share your enthusiasm for the subjects.

3. Emphasise that they have made progress throughout the school year and that learning skills takes time and practice.

1. Reduce the amount of time your child has access to computers, iPads, phones and television.

2. Encourage your child to play games, do puzzles, or read, as this will help ease them into the school routine.

1. Walking around the area near the school can be reassuring for your child, even if you cannot enter the building.

2. Exploring the surroundings helps your child become familiar with the new environment.

1. Arrange any medical check-ups before the end of summer, ready for the new school year. Your child will benefit from knowing of any health issues before the new term.

2. Write down any new concerns or changes in your child’s life so that staff can be informed immediately.

1. Wash and prepare uniform in advance so it is soft, clean and comfortable.

2. Get dressed in the same place each day, keeping a consistent routine.

3. Help your child to organise their clothes prior to putting them on.

4. Point out which is the front and the back everytime your child puts a garment on.

5. Provide verbal cues by talking your child through the steps, use physical cues by putting your hands over your child’s hands to help them get dressed, and offer demonstrations by putting your clothes on at the same time.

6. Break tasks down into small steps. Successfully completing tasks will help build their confidence and self-esteem.

Ready, set, learn

Providing clear, consistent routines and gentle guidance can ease any change in routine. Working with experts in neurodiversity, we have put together advice and guidance, which are easy to adopt, with the support of our daily routine calendar.

Navigating transitions

Navigating transitions can be particularly challenging for neurodivergent children, who often thrive on stability and predictability. It's also beneficial to communicate any upcoming changes well in advance, allowing your child time to adjust. In the videos below, Anne-Marie Harrison, Education Director from Ideas Afresh, explores the topic and shares tips on easing into the new term and new environments.

Understanding & managing school anxiety

It's important to discuss any anxieties your child might have about the upcoming school term to ensure they feel supported and understood. Encourage open and honest communication, allowing them to express their concerns without judgment. By actively listening and validating their feelings, you can help them navigate their worries more effectively, you can also put in place practical solutions and reassure them.