The SpecialMoms Parenting Magazine 3rd Issue | Page 22

Tips for Getting Your
Special Needs Child
Back to School
Tips for Getting Your Special Needs Child Back to school

>>>>>> Mandy Kelly

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reparing to go back to school can
be a lot of work. There is so much
that needs to be done to get for everyone, including parents: school
clothes, supplies, getting everyone back into
a routine. Yet, as the Mommy of a special
needs little boy, the list is sometimes a little
longer.
Here are some tips and tricks that our family
uses to help him transition back to school.

Start The Routine Early
Some kids can handle going back to the
“school routine” just a week or so before
school starts. However, we have found that
with our son, it is important to first tell him
that we are going to switch the routine. We
usually do this three weeks before school
starts. We talk about it – and what the change
means. Bedtime, setting out school clothes,
the works. Then, two weeks before school
starts, we actually start the new routine. This
gives us time to work out any kinks in the
routine and for our little guy to make adjustments as well.
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Meet The Teachers
Most schools have a meet the teacher day
about a week before school starts. We usually find out who our child’s teacher is going to be before summer even starts. Jared
has an IEP (Individualized Education Plan)
and part of this plan is that we decide, as a
team, the best teacher for him before school
even ends. Then, we can talk about this new
teacher all summer long, getting him used to
the idea of a new person.
We also set up a day – before meet teacher
day (usually two weeks before school starts)
- to meet the teacher. This gives my husband
and me more time to chat with the teacher,
as well as giving our son time to see his new
classroom and meet the teacher. It has also
been our experience that we have been able
to help our son pick a seat that will work best
for him with his special needs.

Update The IEP
Make sure you re-read the IEP. Many times,
the IEP plan will change at the end of a
school year. It is important to re-read it so
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