Back to School: Simple Ways to Make September slightly Easier

Returning to school after the summer can bring excitement, but also uncertainty.  For children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), changes in routines, adults, classrooms and expectations can make the transition particularly challenging.

Here are some ways to help make the return to school a little easier:

Prepare for the change

Gradually return to school-day routines such as bedtime and morning routines.  A visual calendar, photos of school or practising the journey can help make things feel more predictable. 

New uniform and shoes

If your child has sensory processing sensitivities, it can be worthwhile wearing new shoes and trying on the uniform before the school term starts to help prevent sensory overload and morning meltdowns.  Stiff collars, rough seams, itchy tags and new shoes can over-stimulate tactile receptors and trigger a genuine panic or stress response.

If an item does cause distress, trying clothing on early leaves enough time to make adjustments or source alternatives.  This may include cutting out itchy labels (whilst still naming clothes), buying seamless socks or having elasticated waistbands.

Talk about what to expect

Remind your child what will stay the same as well as what will be different.  Give them opportunities to share any worries, but don’t put pressure on them to talk.

Share what works with school

Make sure your child’s new teacher knows the important things: their strengths, what they find difficult, signs they may be becoming overwhelmed and strategies that help them to regulate and to learn.

Allow time to adjust

September can be tiring.  You might notice increased emotions, reluctance to attend or a greater need for quiet time after school.  Behaviour can be a way of communicating that things are feeling difficult or overwhelming.

Keep communication open

If your child receives SEN Support or has an EHCP, check that staff understand their needs and that agreed support and reasonable adjustments are in place.  Speak to the teacher or SENDCo early if you have concerns.

Keep home calm

After managing the demands of a school day, some children need time to decompress.  A snack, comfortable clothes, quiet time or a favourite activity can help.

Most importantly

A successful return to school doesn’t mean a child has to manage everything independently from day one.  Small adjustments, familiar routines and supportive adults can make a big difference.

Working together, families and schools can help children with SEND to feel safe, understood and ready to learn.