5 Ways to Ease the Transition Back to School
For many children with autism, changing routines can feel overwhelming. Even if your child isn't starting school this fall, they may find it challenging to transition out of their summer routine. Starting early and implementing a few small changes at a time can make this transition feel much more predictable and comfortable.
1. Slowly Shift Bedtime
Instead of changing bedtime all at once the week before school starts, you can begin moving bedtime and wake-up time by 10–15 minutes every few days. This gives your child's body time to adjust gradually, rather than making a big switch all at once.
2. Practice Morning and Evening Routines
Create a simple morning routine that mirrors what school mornings might look like.
For younger children, this might look like:
• Waking up
• Getting dressed
• Brushing teeth
• Eating breakfast
• Putting on shoes
• Reading a book together before leaving
3. Build Independence Through Play
Summer is a great time to practice small self-help skills that build confidence. Instead of treating these tasks like chores, you can turn them into fun challenges or pretend games that encourage your child to do more on their own.
You can try:
• Packing a picnic together. Have your child open their own snack containers, peel fruit, and carry their lunch to a blanket outside.
• Playing "getting ready." Set up a pretend morning where your child practices putting on their shoes, washing their hands, hanging up a backpack, and getting ready to "leave" for school.
• Creating a clean-up race. Set a timer or play a favorite song and see how many toys your child can put away before it ends.
• Practicing asking for help. During puzzles, crafts, or building activities, encourage your child to use phrases like, "Can you help me?" instead of becoming frustrated. You might even model this behavior by asking them for help.
• Letting your child be your helper. Invite them to wipe the table, throw away napkins, or put groceries away. These simple jobs build independence while helping children feel capable and included.
These everyday experiences help children develop the confidence they'll use in school and beyond, all while having fun together.
4. Talk About What to Expect
If your child will be starting school, you can read books about starting school, visit the school’s playground, or drive by the building if your child will be attending somewhere new.
For younger children beginning preschool or starting ABA therapy, simply talking about what school might look like can reduce uncertainty.
5. Practice Short Separations
If your child has a hard time saying goodbye, practicing before preschool or daycare begins can help build confidence. This will help your child learn that goodbyes are safe, predictable, and temporary. Start with brief separations from a trusted caregiver, grandparent, or family friend. Even 15–30 minutes can provide valuable practice.
When it's time to leave:
• Create a simple goodbye routine, such as a hug, high five, or special phrase like, "I'll be back after snack time."
• Keep your goodbye brief and consistent. Lingering or repeatedly returning after you've said goodbye can make the separation more confusing.
• Follow through on what you say. Returning when you promised helps build trust and predictability.
• When you reunite, celebrate your child's success with specific praise: "You stayed with Grandma while I was gone, and then I came back just like I said I would!"
Remember that it's okay if your child is upset at first. Learning a new routine takes time, and with consistent practice, many children become more comfortable with goodbyes over time.
Every child adjusts at their own pace, and new routines can be tricky for all of us. The goal isn't to make every transition perfect, but these tips can help make the new routine feel a little more predictable, one small step at a time.
