With the new school year just around the corner, many children will be daunted by the return to the classroom. Whilst this can be a tough adjustment for most children following the summer holidays, it is particularly difficult for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Whether your child is returning to school after the summer break, starting a new school, or entering an educational setting for the first time, there are steps you can take to support this transition.
Coping with change
Change can cause a lot of anxiety for children with SEND who often rely on routine and predictability in their daily lives. Sudden or unexpected changes to this can result in them exhibiting challenging behaviours and experiencing stress, anxiety, and frustration.
One way to support this adaptation is to talk to your child about the upcoming changes. This can be a good way to alleviate any worries or anxieties that they may have, as well as letting them prepare themselves.
It may help to have stories or examples of what to expect in school, particularly for those starting a new stage of school or entering education for the first time.
You can also run through new routines in preparation, such as practicing getting ready in the morning and the school run, so your child knows what to expect once the new term starts.
We also recommend contacting your school’s Special Educational Needs Co-Ordinator (SENCO). They will be able to work alongside you and your child to help the process go as smoothly as possible.
Your school’s SENCO can provide practical advice, support, and guidance on how you can support your child through the back-to-school process. You can also coordinate these practices to be consistent both at school and at home, to give your child more stability and routine.
Continuing support at home
Whilst your child’s SENCO can help provide the support they need at school, ensuring that this support continues beyond the classroom is vital.
Once the new school term has started, it is important to continue to assess the situation. If your child is not coping well or receiving the support that they need, we are on hand to help.
Our team works alongside you, your child, and their school to provide support across the board. This includes both in and outside of the home, providing educational support at school and beyond.
Through our specialist care plans, we individually assess the needs of your child and the support that would benefit them.
We work alongside you and your child to identify the areas where care is most needed. From here, we will work to provide the support that your child needs to achieve independence and move towards their long-term goals.
Whilst adaptation to a new school year can be tough, our highly qualified staff are here to provide the support your family needs.
If you would like to find out more about our services for children with SEND, please contact our team today.