Back to School: Making the Transition From Summer to School
Review your child's current IEP or 504 plan.
- Schedule an appointment with your child's team at school to go over goals and to make a plan for the year.
- Start a communication log with each member of your child's team. Make sure everyone is always on the same page.
- Keep an ongoing list of questions!
Attend school events
- If possible, schedule a time prior to or after a 'Back to School Night' to avoid crowds and the potential for a high anxiety situation for your child.
- Create a relationship with your child's new teacher. Make sure his/her teacher is prepared for your child and is aware of needs and accommodations.
TALK!
- Talk to your child, your child's teacher, doctor, and even school nurse
- Begin preparing your child for what is coming up. Address their concerns and provide information slowly to prevent them from being bombarded with too much at once.
- Talk to your child's doctor to make sure all medications are up to date and correct dosages are prescribed.
- Talk to your child's school nurse to make sure any paper work is filled out to receive medications and they are aware of any medical concerns.
Establish a routine
- Create a master visual schedule for everyone at home.
- High light areas that are specific to your child.
- Post a visual picture and written routine so there is no confusion.
- Begin practicing before school starts to avoid surprises.
- Create positive incentives or reward system ahead of time.
- Gradually begin to adjust bed time if there was a change over summer.
