Starting the School Year Off Right!

Back to school time is always exciting and anxiety inducing the same time. The new year represents a new year of growth while also means a transition period of getting adjusted to a new class, teacher, schedule, and more. Here are a few tips to help make that transition easier:

1) Visit your child’s new classroom and teacher the week before school starts. Make sure to go on a different time than the whole rest of the class is going. Take pictures of the new classroom, teacher, and any other changes.

2) Use pictures and drawing to make a social story about what the new school year will be like. Read it frequently with your child.

3) Establish a good morning routine. Begin the routine week before school starts to you can iron out any problems that may arise, and give your child a chance to get used to the new schedule.

4) Establish an after school routine. After a long day at school, especially in the beginning, your child may need some time to relax. However it’s important to have a set time and place to accomplish homework. After the designated homework time, its good to have a reinforcing activity planned.

5) Explain the need for good communication with the teacher. Knowing what your child did during the day is great for both recall practice and skill development.

6) Be excited! Your child will feed off your energy so keep a positive outlook.