Preparing children with anxiety, ADHD, ASD, or OCD for returning to school can be a challenging yet rewarding endeavour. These practical tips can help both anxious parents and their children navigate this transition smoothly:
1. Establish a Routine Early
- Gradual Adjustment: Start adjusting your child's sleep and wake times to match the school schedule a few weeks before school starts.
Daily Schedule: Create a daily routine that simulates a school day with set times for studying, meals, play, and rest.
2. Open Communication
- Talk it Out: Encourage your child to express their feelings about returning to school. Listen actively without judgment.
- Visual Supports: Use social stories or illustrations to explain what the school day will look like.
3. Visit the School
- Familiarity: Arrange a visit to the school to walk around the premises and meet the teacher.
- School Materials: Gather school supplies together and let your child personalize them to build excitement.
4. Mindfulness Techniques
- Breathing Exercises: Teach simple breathing exercises to help manage anxiety.
- Visualisation: Encourage visualisation of a happy school day, imagining positive interactions and successes.
- Using their anxiety ring
5. Create a Sensory-Friendly Environment
- Comfort Items: Allow your child to carry a small comforting object or fidget toy (or fidget rings) to school.
- Quiet Corner: At home, have a designated quiet space where your child can decompress.
6. Collaborate with School Staff
- IEP Plans: Review and update Individualised Education Plans (IEP) with the school to ensure accommodations are current.
- Regular Check-ins: Set regular communication with teachers to discuss your child's progress and any concerns.
7. Focus on Social Skills
- Role-Playing: Engage in role-playing exercises to rehearse social situations.
- Group Activities: Encourage participation in group activities that align with your child's interests
8. Promote Physical Activity
- Exercise Routine: Incorporate physical activities that your child enjoys into the daily routine. Physical activity can help reduce anxiety.
9. Nutrition and Sleep
- Balanced Diet: Ensure a diet rich in nutrients and avoid excessive sugar or caffeine (this is tough for our sensory sensitive kids)
- Sleep Hygiene: Maintain consistent sleep patterns to ensure your child is well-rested (another tricky one for our ASD and ADHD kids)
10. Stay Positive and Encouraging
- Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate your child's small accomplishments to build confidence.
- Positive Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviours.
11. Prepare for the Unexpected
- Discuss Challenges: Talk about potential challenges and discuss possible solutions or coping strategies.
- Flexible Attitude: Maintain a flexible mindset and encourage your child to adapt to changes.
By implementing these strategies, you’ll help create a supportive and reassuring environment for your child, easing their transition back to school. Remember, every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another, so be patient and willing to adapt your approach.