Essential Back-to-School Tips for Families with Children with Disabilities
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Even the most seasoned student can feel stress about what the new year holds. If your child has a developmental disability, this time of year may require special attention. Here are some tips to make this transition easier.
Start a Morning Routine Early
For a child with special needs, you may want to start practicing the morning routine two or three weeks before school starts. Then when the first day arrives, they know what to expect. Go over the bus schedule and show them where the bus will meet them every morning. If they will be driven to and from school, discuss where they will get picked up and how to find their ride.
Discuss Expectations
Talk with the student about what to expect in the upcoming year like new teachers, new classrooms, using a locker, and class schedule. Talk about emotions and what it will be like to be at school all day.
Visit the School
Visiting the school and getting a tour before school starts can lessen anxiety about the unknown. Learn where classes are and walk through the daily routine. Get familiar with the location of lockers and desks and try to meet teachers and administrators before the school year begins.
Understand Accommodations
Make sure the student knows about the services and accommodations that are available to them through their IEP. These can include preferential seating, extended test taking time, or a separate room for testing.
Prepare for transitions
Discuss how the student will transition between classes, lunch, and between school and home.
Be Organized
IEP meetings can involve a lot of paperwork, so it’s important to be organized. Keep a folder of important documents handy.
Celebrate the Return to School
Speak positively about school when discussing the upcoming year and involve them in buying school supplies and new clothes. This can help empower students and give them a sense of collaboration in the back-to-school process.
Get Transition Support
As students navigate the high school years, they will develop transition goals in the IEP to prepare them for life after high school. Your student’s IEP team will support them in reaching those goals. If you are looking for more support and have questions about the process, Community Based Services offers free transition planning support to students ages 14-21. Our transition team can answer questions about OPWDD, adult services, and what resources are available to help ease the transition into adult life and prepare you for applying for services. Reach out to us to start the conversation here: https://commbasedservices.org/get-started/
Wishing all students a terrific start to the new school year!
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