It's hard to believe but the school year is almost here. Parents and students are busy getting ready for the new year, but for students with Autism Spectrum Disorders, preparing for the new year involves much more than just buying school supplies.
Tuesday morning on KARE 11 First Edition, Debra Schipper, Autism Specialist and President of West Metro Learning Connections, discussed ways for parents to help their children with autism make successful transitions from summer back into school.
Schipper says back to school time is more challenging for students with autism because they have such a strong preference for "sameness" and routines that going from summer to school is much harder for them than for "typical" kids. Also, because of their social needs, the social component of school doesn't have the draw for them that it does for typical kids. They are more sensitive to environments, especially related to the 5 senses. School sounds, smells, tastes, touches, etc., can be very uncomfortable for them almost painful at times.
Parents of children with autism can start doing things right now to begin preparing their children to go back to school including, make a special calendar for August, highlight fun back-to-school preparations, shopping trips, and school activities. Schipper also recommends making a ritual of marking off each day and counting the remaining days. Also, reminisce and talk about positive school memories and gradually change go to bed and wake up times and evening and morning routines to make them "school friendly."
Schipper says there are things parents can do to make the transition easier. She says get their brains ready for the change. Make school as familiar and comfortable for your child as possible. Show your student the building, meet the school's faculty, look at school pictures, videos, and even the web site.
While those ideas will help prepare the child, Schipper says it's also important for parents to help prepare the school and the teachers for their child. She recommends parents prepare a document about their child to help teachers understand his/her strengths and needs. They also often include ideas and strategies to maximize their child's success. It's also a good idea for parents to meet face-to-face with the student's teachers.
The West Metro Learning Connections is hosting a workshop for parents to help them plan and prepare for the upcoming school year. The event is Monday, August 24 from 6-8 p.m. It's located at West Metro Learning Connections at 355 2nd Street, Excelsior, MN 55331. For more information call (952) 457-9909 ext. 205 or Click here.
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