The first day of school brings much excitement and chaos.
There are many things you can do to help ease the transition from summer back to school.
Here are a few things you can do to prepare both you and your child for the upcoming change:
Begin Preparing Your Child Slowly
Begin having conversations about school and how the days will be different from the summer time. This includes talking about how bedtimes and waking times will change. Also take advantage of ‘Meet the Teacher’ night. If you have an opportunity for you and your child to meet your teacher and see the classroom prior to the first day of school, this can help all of you be prepared for what’s ahead.
Review your New Routine
If you are able to make early contact with the teacher, ask them to provide a tentative schedule so you can walk your child through what their day might be like. In talking about how bedtimes and waking times will change, also prepare your child for how there will be new times for new activities during their school day.
Create a Guide About Your Child
Teachers are balancing classrooms full of new children, personalities, and energy. Draft a document and provide it to your child’s teacher so they can have quick reference notes if your child has specific needs at any certain times of the day. Be sure to send both a digital copy and a printed copy so you can know your teacher has access to these notes or how to contact you at all times.
Get Yourself Organized
Take time to organize ALL aspects of your child’s school experience including new sleep schedules, class schedules, breakfast and lunch meals, clothing comforts, and medical equipment needs. The first few days of school will help you modify your organization accordingly but the more you do in advance, the less stress it will be for both you and your child.
Resources
Touch base with local organizations and support groups to find out how to best prepare for all challenges and celebrations the new school year will bring for your child and their classroom.
MDA (Muscular Dystrophy Association)
HOTAN (Heart of Texas Autism Network)
Education Service Center Region 12
