The start of a new school year can feel overwhelming. We have to leave the holidays behind and adjust our routines, setting earlier bedtimes, organising uniforms and stationery, and figuring out travel to new schools.

For families with children who have additional needs, stress levels may rise even more as they worry about whether teachers will understand their child, if the right supports will be in place, or whether their child will make friends or cope with learning challenges. Parents may even worry whether their child will make it to school on day one.

It’s important to remember that things rarely go perfectly. Unexpected issues, mistakes, or setbacks are normal, so try not to expect perfection. Giving yourself, your child, and everyone involved in the back-to-school process some grace can make a big difference.

It’s also important to remember that what worked for your child last year might not work this year, and abilities or routines may need to be relearned or adjusted.

Here are just a few tips to help your family transition into the new school year, particularly during the first term.

1. Choose which goals are most important and realistic to work on with your child now. Focus your support and attention on these and communicate your priorities to the teacher and school. Often, children with learning differences will have many things that could be worked on.  What is important for your family?
2. Create a one-page information Cheat Sheet about your child to share with the school. Keep the information brief; bullet points are great.  Make sure you include your child’s strengths and interests, supports that has worked well in the past, as well as what your child finds hard. The Cheat Sheet helps newcomers quickly understand how to work with your child. You can download my Cheat Sheet template here.
3. Arrange a meeting with your child’s teacher and ideally the SENCO or Learning Support Team. This is your chance to set up a partnership between your child, their school, and your family. While it’s normal to feel protective, the partnership only works if you assume good faith, and believe that the school wants your child to learn and supports you. Give them your Cheat Sheet, discuss your child’s needs and communicate your priorities. Invite your child to give their thoughts, however they can. Discuss the most effective ways to stay in touch, share ideas and work together.
4. Be gracious. Every child with additional needs is unique. School staff are on a learning journey too. Many changes are happening in education at the moment.  Sometimes we try things out, and they don’t work as expected. That’s ok, try something different and move on.  We won’t always get things right, so staying flexible is key. If something isn’t working despite your efforts, speak up.
5. Create opportunities for your child to experience success in different environments, for example, at school, at home, and in the community. Even small accomplishments matter greatly. Sometimes, only you and those close to your child notice these milestones, and that's perfectly fine. The goal isn't comparison with others, but recognising when your child learns something new or makes progress. Every achievement is worth celebrating because it helps your child develop confidence, and a confident child is more likely to take on new challenges, setting the stage for further achievements. In this way, success truly does build upon itself.‍
6. Offer extra support at home. Learning differences affect more than just learning at school; they influence every area of life and learning. Kids often feel worn out after school, and their abilities can vary from day to day. Particularly early in the school year, children and teens might unexpectedly need help with tasks they've previously managed on their own, and that's ok. Offering extra support when needed can make things less overwhelming until they adjust.
7. Be positive. Your relationship with your child drives their learning. Positive relationships with school staff are important too. When learning is hard, connection and positivity are vitally important. When we feel connected and safe, we can learn and develop new skills.