How can back-to-school stress be reduced for autistic children? 

 Effective strategies to reduce transition anxiety 

Back to school is crunch time for teachers, students and parents. But it’s also extra busy for those of us working in mental health professions that support families from the sidelines. We work together as a team to help the re-entry into school go smoothly by devising coping strategies and solutions. 

My appointment schedule is jam packed this time of year as parents seek advice and tools to minimize their child’s distress during the transition, from the unhurried months of summer vacation to the busy days spent learning in classrooms. Even kids who are home schooled or doing a hybrid of both traditional and homeschooling can be affected.

During my sessions with parents, I’m often asked if it’s normal that their child is struggling so much. I can assure you that these feelings are entirely normal and can become more manageable with the right strategies. 

It’s common for kids to feel some stress, anxiety, and uncertainty heading into a new school year, and those feelings tend to be amplified in autistic kids and teens. Changes to routine, unfamiliar and unpredictable environments and new sensory experiences are all hurdles that can feel overwhelming and daunting to an autistic child. On top of that, they are expected to negotiate social interactions with a whole new crowd of unfamiliar faces. This is a significant set of challenges to overcome.

The state of mind that all these changes can provoke is called transition anxiety. It often triggers new behaviors that can feel like a regression. Your child might complain about school and ask to be picked up to go home, perhaps feeling sick with stomach aches, or feeling panicky or newly irritable. For these reasons, I tell parents not to overly fixate on how their child is doing academically early in the school year. It’s more important to get them there and comfortable, start establishing a new routine, and make sure their mental health is stable first!

Take solace in knowing this is usually just a temporary phase that will settle if you can ride out the storm. It might even take a couple of months for your child to recalibrate. It is crucial to recognize that this anxiety, and any behaviors that come from it, is an expected response to the fear of change that can be a core part of some individual’s autism. It doesn’t reflect upon your child’s capabilities or your parenting skills.

Channel your concern into giving your child some extra support during this time of transition. By taking solid steps to head off trouble, you can ease this transition for your child in tangible, meaningful ways. 

I’ve compiled some constructive strategies and organized them by age group to help you navigate back-to-school stress with your child. At the end of this list, I’ve also included some universal strategies that apply to all kids, and some advice on when to seek additional support. 

Early Childhood (Ages 3-7)

Visual aids and playful preparation can be incredibly helpful for younger children. Create a visual schedule of the school day and practice school routines through play. Visit the school to check out the classroom and meet the teacher before the first day so your child will understand what to expect. Social stories can also play a lively role in reducing anxiety – acting out various scenarios with your child can alleviate the fear of the unknown.

Middle Childhood (Ages 8-12)

As children grow, involving them in the back-to-school preparation process can be empowering. Give them a say in choosing their own school supplies. Spend time making a checklist of daily school tasks together. Establish a comfortable homework routine.

Teach them self-advocacy skills and practice problem-solving scenarios they might encounter at school. 

For non-speaking children, develop a communication passport detailing their preferences and needs. Explore assistive technology options to enable communication in the classroom. 

Teens (Ages 13-18)

Teenagers face additional challenges as they shoulder increased academic and social expectations. To ward off anxiety around these new responsibilities, discuss potential triggers and coping strategies. Encourage gradual exposure to anxiety-inducing situations. Establish a support system within the school environment. 

For speaking teens, practice how they can disclose their autism if they are comfortable sharing that aspect of themselves. Develop strategies for managing social interactions and group work.

For non-speaking teens, explore more advanced assistive communication technologies. Work with school staff to ensure they are making accommodations for non-speaking communication in all classes.

Universal Strategies For All Kids 

The following strategies can benefit children of all ages and speaking ability:

• Maintain consistent sleep and meal schedules
• Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation
• Create a calm, sensory-friendly space at home for decompressing after school
• Communicate regularly with teachers and support staff
• Celebrate small victories and progress on milestones

When Should You Seek Additional Support?

While some anxiety is normal, persistent or severe symptoms may require professional help. Every autistic child is unique, so what works for one kid may not work for another. Be patient and flexible. Don't hesitate to adjust strategies as needed.

Consider consulting a mental health professional if:

• Anxiety significantly interferes with daily activities
• Your child shows signs of depression or isolation
• There are sudden changes in behavior or sleep patterns
• School refusal becomes an issue

Join Our Autism Roadmaps Community

You don’t have to face this journey alone. Navigating the back-to-school transition is just one of many challenges that parents of autistic children face. If you're looking for ongoing support, expert guidance, and a group of people who truly understand, I invite you to join our private Autism Roadmaps Community.

As a child psychiatrist specializing in autism and mental health, I've created this dynamic doctor-led online space specifically for parents who are facing similar challenges. Join a community that gets it, where every question is welcomed, and every struggle is understood. Together, we can create an insightful and empowering roadmap for your child's success.

In our community, you'll find:

• Expert-led discussions on autism and mental health topics
• Practical strategies for supporting your child’s development
• A supportive network of parents sharing similar experiences
• Regular Q&A sessions and webinars where I address your specific concerns
• Resources tailored to the distinct challenges of parenting an autistic child

Are you ready to access expert support while also connecting with other parents who understand? Click the button below to learn more and join our Autism Roadmaps Community. Your fellow travelers are waiting to welcome you!

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