The Back to School Transition

Written By Children InMotion

It is that time of year again. The long summer days are getting shorter and the start of the school year is fast approaching. The end of summer break can be a challenging time for both parents and children. After weeks of freedom and fun, it can be tough to transition back into the structured routine of school days. However, there are many things parents can do to ease the process and make it less stressful for their children.

One way to help children adapt to changes in their daily routine is by using visual schedules. These can be especially helpful for children with sensory processing difficulties or executive functioning problems. Visual schedules provide a clear and predictable outline of the day's events, which can help reduce anxiety and increase a child's sense of control.

In addition to visual schedules, having a consistent routine is key to helping children transition smoothly back into school. Here are some practical tips for establishing routines before the school year starts:

  • Start gradually adjusting your child's bedtime routine at least two to three weeks before school starts. This can include setting an earlier bedtime and limiting screen time before bed to help your child get a good night's sleep.

  • Practice the morning routine, including getting dressed, brushing teeth, and packing the backpack. This can help reduce morning chaos and help your child feel more confident and prepared for the day.

  • Gradually adjust meal times and daily activities to align with the school schedule. This can help children get used to the new routine and reduce hunger and fatigue during the school day.

For children who have difficulty transitioning due to sensory processing problems or executive functioning issues, occupational therapy (OT) can be very helpful. OT can provide activities and strategies to build executive functioning and sensory processing skills. Occupational therapy can help with your child’s ability to complete planning, organization, and time management tasks. An occupational therapist may use activities such as board games or puzzles to help a child practice these skills in a fun and engaging way while teaching your child strategies to maximize and improve their executive functioning skills.

So, while preparing for back-to-school can be stressful, there are many things parents can do to make the transition smoother. Visual schedules, consistent routines, and occupational therapy can all be helpful tools for children who have difficulty adjusting to changes in their daily routine. By taking proactive steps to prepare your child for the school year, you can help them feel more confident and ready to learn.

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