Helping Our Kids Transition Back to School

As the new school year approaches, things can become emotionally charged for many of our children. While some kids are excited to go back to school to see friends and get back into a routine, others feel apprehension at the thought of going back. The kids who have anxiety about this transition might even be neurodivergent and can certainly find success with starting a new school year. They simply require different kinds of supports to feel more comfortable going back to school.

How do we support our neurodivergent kiddos as they transition back into classrooms?

As parents, guardians, or other significant people in a child’s life, one of the most important things we can do is be positive. Modeling positive language and a positive attitude when we talk about and get ready for the new school year makes a huge difference. When kids hear our positivity about a topic, it’s harder to hold onto negative thoughts about that same topic. It also shows our children that even if there is some uneasiness about going to school, we can be optimistic and find positive aspects. That being said, it’s also important to acknowledge and validate a child’s fears or anxieties. But acknowledging a child’s worry doesn’t mean that you have to encourage it either. Strike a balance to show that you understand and it’s okay to have these feelings, but that there are ways to feel more comfortable going back to school. If your child needs more support as the first day of school approaches, here are some other ways you can help.

Another way to model positivity is to use affirmations. These can be simple, positive statements you develop with or without your child’s input. After they are given a sample affirmation, some kids may enjoy creating their own. Affirmations can be stated throughout the day or they can be posted in areas of the home your child frequents. Positive affirmations are powerful. They help disrupt negative thinking and provide a positive alternative. Find our printable affirmation cards here.

This has been a huge help in my household. Having a way to display the number of days before school starts is a good way to help kids anticipate how many days are left. Especially if they can cross off the days as school approaches—there’s a sense of empowerment when a kiddo can be in charge of keeping track. Click here for a FREE printable calendar.

My child loves, loves, loves unicorns and ponies. She has a few favorite characters and expressed that if she could have them there with her on the first day of school, she might feel braver. While her idea was that she brings all of her stuffed animals and figurines to class, I offered another solution. We went online and bought vinyl stickers of her favorite characters and decorated her water bottle, something that she has at all times at school. Being able to pick out her favorite characters and see them throughout her school day provided a sense of comfort to calm her nerves. I used these stickers, but there are many other options for stickers available.

Though you need to check with your child’s teacher and/or school to see if they are allowed, fidgets are a useful support to help neurodivergent kids relieve anxiety. Fidgets can also help neurodivergent kids focus and attend better when learning. There are many options that are minimally disruptive (see these cool rings), in case that’s a concern. My child utilizes fidgets in class, particularly ones she can also chew on. (These bracelets are a favorite.)

There are many ways to help quell our kids’ anxieties about the new school year, but the bottom line is: Be positive and encouraging to show your understanding and support. Sometimes the anticipation of an upcoming transition can feel overwhelming, but with support and positivity, our kids can be successful and have a great start to the new school year.

Do you have questions or need more tips on how to support your kids? Please use the comments below or send us a message at autismmovingforward@gmail.com.