Transitioning back to school can be difficult for kids with special needs. These 3 teacher and parent-tested tips can make it easier.

School is about to start all over the country. For some kids with special needs it can be a hard transition, one parents can make easier by following a few simple steps.

Here are a few favorites I used as a parent and suggested to parents when kids were transitioning back to school:

Tip #1: Add Routine to the Day

Start adjusting your child’s bed time and wake up time to the upcoming school schedule. Do the same with meal times, chore times, and any other routines that will be part of the school year.

Tip #2: Acquaint your Child with the School

Kids going to a new school should visit ahead of time, tour the building, and try out the play equipment. Arrange a time for your child to meet teachers visit the new school and walk through the daily schedule.

Tip #3: Sharpen Skills

Be proactive about subjects or situations that will be difficult for your child. Make a game to practice math facts, start reading together more often, role play interactions, or create social stories ahead of time. (An online search for “social stories” will yield a host of free ones to download or print.)

Share Your Transitioning Back to School Tips

What are your favorite transitioning back to school tips? Share the ones that make life easier at your house in the comment section. I’d love to hear them.

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Transitioning back to school can be difficult for kids with special needs. These 3 teacher and parent-tested tips can make it easier.

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