4 Tips for Supporting Your Neurodiverse Child During the School Year

Author: Dr. Rooman Ahad, Pediatric Neurologist

For many, the school year is now in full swing! For children on the autism spectrum and/or living with other neurodiverse challenges, this can be both an exciting and stressful time for them leading to feelings of being overwhelmed. Dr. Rooman Ahad, Pediatric Neurologist at the Grant a Gift Autism Center - Ackerman Center, shares 4 tips for ways families can support their children as they continue to adjust for the school year ahead.

1. Back-to-School Routines

Many of our patients at the center really thrive and have a routine. Some children attend the extended school year program. For those that are now transitioning back to school, this fall parents will often find having a routine bedtime, routine wake time, and routine prepping for the school day will help tremendously in having a successful school year. Many of our patients really love school and they are excited about attending school and participating. Setting a routine early should help in making the school year successful.

2. Individualized Education Plans

For many parents with children who have special needs and have an IEP (Individualized Education Program), it can be a daunting task to navigate the system. When patients come to see us in the clinic we often review what aspects of the IEP are helping and in other areas where it can be improved. I often ask parents to stay in touch with the teachers involved in their child's education. I often ask parents to also be advocates for their children when it comes to educational plans. We also have a case management team at the center that can help parents better understand what an IEP is and how it can help their child.

3. Homework

Sometimes this can be a challenging time. We are leaving relaxing summer vacations to return to strict routines and homework after school. I find that many children do better when their parents sit with them and work on their homework together. The child can work independently but can ask questions when needed. This motivates the child to spend time with family as well as get their work done. Oftentimes a reward system may also be helpful in getting homework done in a timely fashion.

4. Transitioning to the School Year

Transitioning into a new school, a new classroom, with a new teacher, can be very anxiety-provoking for many children. I like to talk to children about school and return to school pretty early on before the summer has ended. Possibly meeting with a new teacher at orientation, maybe taking a tour of the classroom if you are able, and meeting other parents and children may be helpful. This may not be practical for all schools and all classrooms. If this is the case then talking in general about what to expect in the following grade, new friends, new place to sit, and discussing it in an exciting way can be beneficial.