Back to School !

A lot children will be shortly returning to school shortly or attending for the first time . Being informed before starting and preparing your child in advance can make a real difference

Things that may help
1. Create a social story about going back to school or starting school. If possible use real pictures of the school environment and building. Many children on the autism spectrum have a very literal interpretation of what is communicated to them. Also if your child will be using the school transport scheme you will need to create one for this also.
2.If you child is starting in a new school or starting for the first time . A visit to the school before starting so your child can look around and have some familiarity of the surroundings and meet his/her teacher and other adults who may be working with him her.If this isn't possible request a picture of the teacher from the school to include in social story
3.Sensory processing issues . If you child has sensory processing difficulties with clothing and the school uses a uniform, check with the school what the options are for your child and what accommodations can be made .
4What is the classroom environment like ? How many children is in the class ? are their planned breaks during the day for your child . How does the school staff help make the environment more accommodating for your child’s needs e.g is there movement breaks , a sensory room etc.
5.What communication methods are the school staff  familiar in using with a child on the autism spectrum? e.g. PECs , Grace app etc
6. Inform school staff about any environmental concerns you have about your child .E.g. are they a flight risk, do they eat non edible items or any behavioural issues ,communication , transitions etc
Share what methods work for your child in your experience and why with your child’s teacher , remember you know your own child best.
7. Use a communication diary between you the parent/caregiver and your teacher . A simple hardback copy in your child's bag with their name and communication diary marked on it . This may be especially important if your child is using the School Transport scheme.

The list is not endless and each child's experience of school is completely different with so many types school environments in Ireland now.As is the relationship between parent child and teacher . Please feel free to add what has worked for you and your child .