It is hard to believe that it is already August and the back to school season is already in full swing. In preparation for the fall here are some tips for parents of students with special education needs to help them prepare for the upcoming school year: 

1. Spend time to review last year’s Individual Education Plan (IEP) and in particular review your child’s statement of needs. Having a strong statement is an important part in helping them receive the right programs and services. In addition, having an updated statement is a good way to help you communicate any changes since last year with your child’s teacher and school.

2. Start talking with your child about returning to school in a positive way. This will help prepare them mentally for going back to school. These positive discussions can continue with visiting the school and to see their new classroom and meet their new teacher. This can help reduce their anxiety on the first day of school. 
   
   
3. Identify any new routines and skills your child will encounter at school this year. For example, will they have student lockers with combination locks? Will they begin to change classrooms for different subjects? Call the school principal the week before school starts and find out if you can bring your child in ahead of time to meet their teacher, go over their class locations, where their new locker will be, etc.  The more familiar a place is, the lower the anxiety.

4. Make your child a partner in getting ready for back to school. Depending on their age and maturity level, let them pick out back to school clothes and supplies. In addition, have them participate in establishing parts of their schedule (i.e., when to wake up, homework time, and bedtime). Having them contribute to this planning process will help them increase their organization, planning and executive functioning skills in the future.

5. If your child will be taking a school bus for the first time, find out if your school board has a student bus orientation program. This can include an opportunity to meet the driver and go over any special needs they should be aware of. Contact the transportation office at your school board to inquire about these programs.