Back to School: Tips for Term 1 and Preparing for a Great Year
- Posted by spectrum
- On February 2, 2022
- 0
Get Organised
- Create a “drop zone”: For school bags, hats and shoes so that they’re easy to find in the mornings
- Keep it simple: Make it visible by using clear drawers, boxes or baskets to organise uniforms, bags, lunchboxes etc. Make is easy by ditching the lids and making them easily accessible
- Prepare the night before: Make lunches, pack bags and complete homework the night before. Write a checklist of your likely to forget!
- Important dates: Be prepared for school events by adding dates into your calendar or sticking a list of them on the fridge.
Create Routines
- Visual schedules and visual timers: A schedule with images of what is expected can be followed to help stay on track during morning and afternoon routines. Set a timer for each task, this may be a sand or ink timer, or as simple as a kitchen timer.
- Keep it predictable: Decrease anxiety by keeping a consistent routine. Try to give as much notice as possible when there are changes.
Eat, Sleep, Toilet
- Eating: Can your child open their lunchbox and food wrappers? Have I made the teacher aware of my child’s sensory needs (e.g. need to wipe hands or need for cutlery)? Speak to your OT or Speech Pathologist if eating at school is a concern.
- Sleep: Ensure the environment is comfortable – think about light and temperature. Consistent wake up and bed times can improve sleep quality.
- Toileting: Ensure your child is familiar with the school toilet and how to use it by themselves. Speak to your OT if toileting is a concern.
“A new school year means new beginnings, new adventures, new friendships, and new challenges. The slate is clean and anything can happen.” – Denise Witmer