Back-To-School and ASD: Anticipation is key in ASD

Navigating the Transition from Summer to School: A Guide for Families with Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

As the summer days begin to wane, families with school-aged children start preparing for the transition back to school. This shift can be challenging for any child, but for families with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), it often requires additional planning and care. The return to a structured routine, new environments, and social interactions can be overwhelming. However, with thoughtful preparation, emotional support, and tailored strategies, families can help their children with ASD navigate this transition more smoothly.

Keep in mind that ASD is about difficulties with Anticipating and Adjusting to changes/shifts. Hence, the children and teens with ASD often run out of energy as they try to keep things “under control” or “familiar and comfortable.” 

1. Minimize Surprise and Start Preparing Early

Preparation is key to easing the back-to-school transition for children with ASD. Begin by gradually reintroducing the school routine a few weeks before the first day. Adjust bedtime and wake-up times to align with the school schedule. Introduce school-related activities like reading, writing, or using educational apps to slowly re-engage your child in learning. Creating a visual schedule that outlines the daily routine can be particularly helpful, as it allows your child to anticipate what to expect each day.

2. Help them Anticipate and Visit the School Ahead of Time

Familiarity with the school environment can greatly reduce anxiety. If possible, arrange for a visit to the school before it officially starts. Walk through the building, locate the classroom, and meet the teacher. Some schools offer orientation days, which are excellent opportunities for your child to explore the school in a more relaxed setting. If your child has a specific seat or a designated space in the classroom, show them this area during the visit to provide a sense of ownership and comfort.

3. Create a Social Story

Social stories are personalized short stories that explain social situations and expectations in a simple, concrete manner. Writing a social story about returning to school can help your child understand the transition and what will happen. Include details like getting ready in the morning, riding the bus, entering the classroom, and interacting with teachers and peers. Role-play the story with an emphasis on emotions. Exaggerate to make sure they experience the emotions and practice following expected routines while feeling excited. Review the social story daily leading up to the first day to reinforce these concepts.

4. Focus on Emotional Preparation = Tension Management 

Emotional self-regulation for children with ASD is tension management. Emotions originate as tension in our muscles all over our bodies. The brain can interpret tension as neutral, positive or negative. The brain does so via neurochemical reactions that make muscles react in a certain way, tense up more or relax, and only then the brain labels the tension-related sensations as emotions. “All the issues are in the tissues.” When the level of tension is high and there is no help from the outside to reduce the tension or direct it positively, a child with an ASD may present with a “shut down”/“freeze” or “fight” response.  Transitions are known to elicit tension in all of us. Novel transitions and shifts in school can cause unbearable levels of tension in a child with ASD and be emotionally challenging. Addressing their feelings about the change is crucial. Practice small movement breaks and breathing exercises to “get the issues out of the tissues” or tension out of the body. Engage in conversations about school, asking open-ended questions to gauge their emotions. Be patient and validate their feelings, whether they express excitement, fear, or reluctance. Incorporate calming techniques such as deep breathing exercises, sensory activities, or mindfulness practices into the daily routine to help manage anxiety.

5. Maintain Open Communication with the School

Collaborate with your child’s teachers and support staff to ensure a smooth transition. Share any strategies that work well at home, such as specific communication methods, sensory needs, or behavior management techniques. Discuss any accommodations or modifications your child may need in the classroom, such as a quiet space, sensory breaks, or visual aids. Regular communication with the school team will help create a supportive environment that meets your child’s needs.

6. Prepare for Sensory Needs

The school environment can be overwhelming for children with sensory sensitivities. Prepare a sensory toolkit that your child can bring to school, which might include noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, or a weighted blanket. Talk to the school about providing a designated sensory space where your child can go if they need a break. At home, continue to provide sensory experiences that help your child regulate, whether it’s through tactile activities, movement, or quiet time.

7. Celebrate Small Successes

Transitions are a process, and every small success deserves celebration. Whether it’s getting dressed on time, entering the classroom without anxiety, or making a new friend, acknowledge these achievements. Positive reinforcement builds confidence and encourages your child to keep trying. Share these successes with teachers to keep them informed and involved in supporting your child’s progress.

8. Stay Flexible and Patient

Despite all the preparation, there may still be bumps along the way. Some days might be harder than others, and that’s okay. Stay flexible and patient, and be ready to adjust strategies as needed. If your child struggles, take a step back and reassess what might be causing the difficulty. Sometimes, it’s a matter of making small tweaks to the routine or providing extra support in certain areas.

The transition from summer to back to school is a significant change for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, but with careful planning and support, it can be managed successfully. By preparing early, addressing emotional needs, and working closely with the school, families can create a positive and supportive environment for their children. Every child’s journey is unique, so tailor these strategies to fit your child’s individual needs and celebrate the progress they make along the way. With patience, understanding, and love, the school year can become a time of growth and new possibilities.

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