Stress-Free Back-to-School: Practical Advice for Families

As the new school year approaches, many children—and parents—feel a mix of excitement and anxiety.

Transitioning from summer break to the school routine can be challenging, especially for kids with ADHD or autism. Here are some practical, research-backed strategies to help your child have a smooth start.

1. Re-establish Routines Early: Start bringing back regular bedtimes, wake-up times, and meal schedules a week or two before school begins. Predictable routines help children feel secure and make mornings less stressful.

2. Talk About Feelings: Encourage your child to share how they feel about going back to school. Some kids may be excited, while others might feel nervous. Let them know it’s okay to have mixed emotions. Drawing or playing can help younger children express themselves.

3. Reconnect Socially: Arrange playdates or attend school events so your child can reconnect with friends and meet teachers. Familiar faces can make the first day less intimidating.

4. Visit the School: If possible, visit the school before the first day. Walk through the building, find the classroom, and meet the teacher. This helps reduce anxiety by making the environment more familiar.

5. Stay Involved: Keep in touch with your child’s teacher and participate in school activities. Children do better when parents and teachers work together as a team.

Extra Tips for Kids with ADHD and/or Autism

• Use Visual Schedules: Post a daily schedule with pictures or words to help your child know what to expect.

• Break Tasks Into Steps: Give one instruction at a time and break big tasks into smaller, manageable parts.

• Plan Movement Breaks: Allow for short, active breaks to help your child stay focused.

• Praise Efforts: Give immediate, specific praise or small rewards for following routines and trying their best.

• Create a Transition Plan: Work with the school to develop a plan that addresses your child’s unique needs and strengths.

• Use Social Stories: Read or create simple stories that explain what will happen at school and how to handle new situations.

• Provide Sensory Supports: Pack items like noise-canceling headphones or fidget toys if your child is sensitive to sounds or needs something to help them stay calm.

• Arrange Peer Support: Ask if your child can have a buddy or familiar staff member to help them feel comfortable.

• Practice Skills: Practice skills like asking for help or following classroom routines at home.

• Work Together and Check In: Stay in close contact with teachers and specialists, and check in regularly with your child about how things are going.

Always adjust strategies as needed to help your child feel supported and successful.

References:

1. National Center for Learning Disabilities. “Back-to-School Tips for Kids with ADHD and Autism.”

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Back to School: Tips for Parents.”

3. American Academy of Pediatrics. “Helping Children Adjust to a New School Year.”

4. Autism Speaks. “School Community Tool Kit.”

5. Child Mind Institute. “Helping Kids Get Ready for School.”