The beginning of a school year can be challenging for any child but adjusting to the new routine can be especially testing for those with autism or other neurological differences.

• Talk to your child ahead of time about the new school year and what changes they should expect
• Practice your new morning routine before the first day of school
• Tour/visit the school if your child is starting at a new school
• Share with the teachers – let them know what hobbies your child has, what upsets them, how they learn best etc.
• Help your child organize by creating a written schedule, calendar or daily planner – find what works for them
• Refresh your child of positive memories of the previous year to help them look forward to the new year
• Review basis classroom rules and if your child rides the bus go over those rules too
• Encourage your child to speak up when they need help and let them know who they can turn to
• If you have a picky eater, plan lunches and snacks together

These are just a few tips to help make the news school year a little easier. For further reading check out the following links:

• Autism Speaks: Helpful Tips, Family Services
• American Academy of Pediatrics
• Autism Consortium
• Autism Society
• Indiana Resource Center for Autism
• Research Autism