The transition back to school can be a challenging time for families, particularly for those with neurodiverse children. With the right preparation and support, this process can become smoother and more enjoyable.
At Therapy Connect, we’re experienced in providing online therapy in Australia, including online speech therapy and online occupational therapy, to help families and children feel empowered and ready for the school year. Here’s how you can prepare your neurodiverse child for a successful return to school while leveraging the benefits of online allied health therapy.
1. Start Preparing Ahead of Time
Early preparation is key to reducing anxiety and building confidence.
- Talk About School: Start conversations about their teacher, classmates, and daily routines during the holidays. Discussing these topics early helps them visualise and anticipate what’s coming.
- School Visits or Photos: If possible, visit the school or show your child pictures of key areas like their classroom, playground, or library. This builds familiarity and reduces uncertainty.
- Countdown Calendar: Use a countdown calendar to visually track how many days are left until school starts. This tangible tool helps neurodiverse kids process time and prepare mentally.
Online occupational therapy can support these preparations by introducing visual aids and strategies tailored to your child’s needs.
2. Get Organised Together
Involving your child in the preparation process can help them feel more in control and ready for the new school year.
- Prepare School Supplies: Engage your child in choosing their school items—such as a backpack, lunchbox, drink bottle or uniform. Selecting these items themselves helps them feel connected and excited about school.
- Practice at Home: Use the school supplies at home to familiarise your child with how they work, like zipping their bag or opening their lunchbox and drink bottle.
3. Communicate with Teachers
Building a strong relationship with your child’s teacher is essential for a supportive school experience.
- Meet the Teacher: If possible, meet with the teacher before school starts or early in the first week. Share insights about your child’s preferences and needs.
Your child’s therapist may also meet with the teachers in the early weeks of the year to provide information, discuss challenges and set up a collaborative relationship.
- Create a Student Summary: Collaborate with your child and their therapist to create a summary for the teacher. Include your child’s strengths, challenges, sensory needs, and strategies that work well.
Our online allied health therapy services, including occupational therapy, can guide you in creating this summary and ensuring it’s tailored to your child’s needs.
4. Support Anxiety About School
It’s natural for children to feel anxious about returning to school, and neurodiverse kids may need extra support.
- Open Conversations: Encourage your child to share their worries. Validate their feelings and provide calm, honest answers to their questions.
- Therapy Support: Continuing sessions with an online therapist in Australia, such as an occupational therapist, can help your child develop coping strategies and address their concerns.
5. Ease Back Into Routines
Re-establishing routines before school starts can make the transition smoother.
- Gradual Routine Adjustment: Shift wake-up times, bedtime, and meal schedules gradually during the holidays to align with the school timetable.
- Visual Schedules: Collaborate with your child’s occupational therapist to create a visual schedule. These schedules help break down daily routines into manageable steps, tailored to your child’s unique needs.
6. Focus on Joy and Connection
The holidays are a valuable time to strengthen relationships and create positive memories.
- Explore Special Interests: Spend time engaging in activities your child loves. Whether it’s a creative hobby, a favorite game, or simply spending quality time together, these moments build trust and emotional connection.
- Let Them Lead Play: Join in your child’s play and let them take the lead. This not only fosters their confidence but also strengthens your bond.
Supporting Your Family with Online Therapy in Australia
At Therapy Connect, we provide comprehensive online therapy in Australia, including speech, occupational therapy, psychology, dietetics, physiotherapy and other allied health therapy services. Our experienced therapists can work with your child and your family to ensure a smooth transition back to school.
From creating tailored visual schedules to addressing specific challenges, we’re here to help. Whether you’re looking for guidance on managing school anxiety, developing social skills, or setting up effective routines, our online therapy services are designed to meet your needs wherever you are in Australia.
Contact us today to learn more about how our online allied health therapy services can support your child as they prepare for school!
This blog was written by Community of Practice Lead Skye Simons.
