As the summer days begin to wane and the back-to-school season approaches, many parents feel a mix of emotions—excitement, anticipation, and perhaps a bit of anxiety. For parents of children with sensory needs, this time can be particularly challenging. The transition back to the structured environment of school can be overwhelming, but with a few thoughtful strategies, you can help your child ease into their new routine with confidence and calm.
Here are some practical tips from a pediatric occupational therapist and fellow parent to help your child smoothly return to school:
1. Prepare the Night Before
Mornings can be hectic, especially when your child has sensory needs. To reduce the morning chaos, take some time the night before to prepare.
- Pack your child’s lunch box with non-perishable items
- Organize their backpack with all necessary supplies (notebooks, homework, parent forms, binders, books)
- Lay out their clothes.
Having everything ready in advance not only saves time but also reduces the sensory overload that can come with making too many decisions early in the morning.
2. Wear Clothes to Bed
One unconventional yet effective strategy is to have your child wear their clothes to bed. This can significantly cut down on morning struggles, especially if getting dressed is a trigger for sensory discomfort.
While a few wrinkles might be unavoidable, the peace of mind that comes from a smoother morning routine can be well worth it. This small adjustment can make a big difference in starting the day on the right foot.
3. Make a Daily Schedule
Children with sensory needs often find comfort in predictability. Creating a daily schedule and reviewing it each morning can help reduce anxiety, particularly if your child struggles with transitions.
- Place the schedule in a common area, like the refrigerator, where it’s easy to see and refer to throughout the day.
- If your child is a visual learner or not yet reading, consider using the Choiceworks app, which offers customizable visual schedules that can make understanding the day’s activities easier and more engaging.
4. Strategies for Stressful Times at School
School can be a source of stress for any child, but for those with sensory needs, certain situations can feel overwhelming. Teach your child a few simple strategies to manage stressful moments in advance. Here are some ideas…
- Deep Breathing: Encourage slow, deep breaths to help calm the nervous system.
- Ask for a Quiet Break: A one-minute break in a designated quiet space can be incredibly restorative.
- Create a Safe Space: Work with your child’s teacher to identify a safe space in the classroom where they can go when feeling overwhelmed.
- Practice Positive Self-Talk: Simple affirmations like “I can do this!” or “I can try my best” can help your child build resilience and confidence.
5. Break Time After School
After a long day at school, your child may need some time to decompress before diving into homework.
- Allow them a break to play, relax, or engage in a preferred activity.
- To make transitions smoother, set a timer together so your child knows when it’s time to switch gears.
- This approach not only respects their need for downtime but also helps establish a predictable routine.
- Keep in mind that this transition doesn’t have to be overwhelming for you or your child.
- By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you can create a supportive environment that eases the stress of returning to school and sets both you and your child up for success.
Remember, small adjustments can make a big difference in your child’s ability to navigate the school day with confidence. Keeping your student’s sensory needs in mind, can help make this school year a positive and successful one!
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