Whether it’s a new school or new class, preschool, primary, post-primary or even college this time of year can be challenging for many children and families. We have pulled together some tips and resources to lend a bit of support over the next few weeks.
Firstly sounds easier than it is… Be positive & encouraging!
This can be an anxious time of year for both children, their parents and families. Try to maintain a positive and enthusiastic attitude, as you will greatly influence their perception and excitement about starting school. Use encouraging words, share your own positive school experiences and highlight the fun and learning opportunities that lie ahead. Reassure your child that there will be supports and frequently discuss arrangements around uniform, lunch and after school activities.
The importance of sharing information...
The school curriculum has a core principle of child-centredness. This recognises that there are different kinds of learning and that children learn in different ways. Teachers adapt lessons or tasks so that children with special educational needs can participate in and benefit from the curriculum at a level and pace that best suits their learning styles and needs.
It’s a good idea to share information early in the process with your school regarding your child’s needs. Ensure the school have any available reports (e.g. preschool, medical, diagnostic, occupational therapy, psychology) available that may help them in planning for your child’s start at school and any adaptions that may need to be made.
Young children need to feel secure and confident that their likes and dislikes will be understood. It can be a good idea to create and maintain a “Childs School Passport” for your child with their picture and general information on their likes and dislikes. This can be updated on an annual basis and provided to new teachers and support staff.
An editable template of a Childs School Passport can be found here https://www.snpndonegal.com/post/childs-school-passport
If you get the opportunity to meet with the school before your child starts this is a good opportunity to discuss expectations for your child’s education and any concerns you might have. Based on the information provided the school will draft a support plan which will include information on your child’s needs including
- Learning needs
- Sensory needs
- Care needs
- Physical needs
- Social & communication needs
The support plan should also set out the communication plan between parents and the school as continuous communication with school staff is essential to ensuring a smooth and successful transition for your child.
Plan regular check ins with teachers and support staff to avoid having conversations in front of child and their peers, attend parent meetings, and stay informed about school activities and your child's progress. This partnership will help address any issues early and support your child's adjustment to their new environment.
Prepare your child for the transition
Supporting your child's transition to pre-school, primary school, or post-primary school is a significant step in building their confidence and sense of security in this new phase of their life. Discuss with your child what they can expect during the school day and address any concerns they may have. It is important to remember that there is no right or wrong way to prepare but there are many strategies that can help to assist in a successful transition. Here are some steps you can take to ease this transition:
Create visual supports e.g. back to school calendar
A calendar or visual aid can help your child have a sense of control about the upcoming transition. There are many tools online to support with this, for e.g.
Middletown Autism Centre have an excellent calendar that can be printed and displayed.https://www.middletownautism.com/files/shares/Resources/Mon_16_Aug_My_School_Countdown_Calendar.pdf
Down Syndrome Ireland have fantastic workbooks that can be printed for parents and children to work on together https://downsyndrome.ie/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Post-Primary-School-my-workbook.pdf
Create a Social Story
Some schools have a social story with specific photos of the school which your child can look at. If not available you should be able to find photos online, or request photos from your school. Engage with your child by reading these social stories and other books about starting school. Role-playing school scenarios at home can also be beneficial in helping them feel more comfortable and prepared.
Check out local community resources and online resources
Your local library can often have resources and events to support children with school for e.g. Donegal Libraries https://www.snpndonegal.com/post/donegal-library have a “Summer Stars Starting School storytime on at the following locations:
- Twin towns 20 August 2024 3.00pm – 4.00pm
- Lifford 21 August 2024 11.00am – 12.00pm
- Raphoe 22 August 2024 3.00pm – 4.00pm
Some examples of the many available online resources to support with school transitions include:
Pre-school to primary:https://downsyndrome.ie/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Transition-from-Pre-School-to-Primary-School.pdf
NCSE – Starting School Guidelines for Parents/Guardians of Children with Special Education Needs https://ncse.ie/guidelines-on-starting-school
Primary to Post-primary: https://ncse.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Supporting-students-with-Down-syndrome-transition-from-Primary-to-Post-Primary-School.pdf
ASIAM the Autistic Guide to Starting College https://autismfriendlyhei.ie/
Try to settle into a good routine
A nurturing home environment is essential to every child. Establish a routine that supports the school day, including consistent bedtimes, morning preparations, and mealtimes. Practice the school routine a few weeks before the start date to help them adjust utilising visuals, support stories etc discussed above.
Work on building independence
Encourage your child to practice essential skills. Depending on what stage your child is at this may include dressing themselves, toileting independently, tying their shoelaces, and managing their belongings. Involving them in packing their school bag and discussing lunch arrangements can boost their confidence and independence.
Lastly, look after you.
As we said at the beginning, this can also be an anxious time for parents and the wider family. Try to schedule a coffee, a walk or something nice for yourself that first day when you drop them into school.
Best of luck!