Back-to-School Tips for Families of Children with Special Needs

The start of a new school year is an exciting milestone—but for families of children with special needs, it often comes with a little extra planning.

Beyond shopping for backpacks and school supplies, many parents are coordinating therapies, reviewing educational plans, communicating with teachers, and helping their child adjust to a new routine.

The good news? A little preparation before the first day can go a long way toward creating a successful school year. Families are often encouraged to review support plans, establish routines, and communicate early with school staff before classes begin.

Start Talking About School Early

If your child is feeling excited—or anxious—about returning to school, start the conversation before the first day. Ask questions like:

• What are you looking forward to?

• Is there anything you're worried about?

• Is there something you'd like to practice before school starts?

For some children, using a calendar or countdown can make the transition feel more predictable. Others may benefit from visiting the school, looking at photos of their classroom, or meeting their teacher ahead of time if possible.

Re-Establish School Routines

Summer schedules often look very different from the school year. A week or two before school begins, gradually return to routines such as:

• Earlier bedtimes

• Consistent wake-up times

• Morning dressing and hygiene routines

• Mealtimes

• Homework or quiet time

Practicing these routines ahead of time can reduce stress for both children and parents once school begins.

Connect with Your Child's School Team

One of the best ways to start the year on the right foot is by building positive relationships with the people who will be working with your child every day. Consider reaching out before school starts to:

• Introduce yourself

• Share information about your child's strengths and interests

• Discuss communication preferences

• Review any accommodations or support strategies that help your child succeed

Remember, teachers and families work best as partners with a shared goal: helping your child thrive.

Review Your Child's Support Plan

If your child has an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a Section 504 Plan, take some time to review it before school begins. Ask yourself:

• Are the goals still appropriate?

• Are accommodations clearly outlined?

• Have there been any changes over the summer that the school should know about?

Starting these conversations early can help ensure supports are in place from day one.

Prepare for the First Week

The first few days can feel overwhelming, especially when there are new teachers, classmates, and routines. A few simple strategies can help:

• Pack backpacks the night before.

• Lay out clothes in advance.

• Practice the route to school.

• Review the day's schedule together.

• Allow extra time in the morning.

It's also normal for children to feel tired after school during the first week. Building in quiet time to relax and decompress can make the transition easier.

Celebrate Progress: Big and Small

Success doesn't always look the same for every child.

For one student, a great first week might mean making a new friend. For another, it could be successfully navigating a new classroom, communicating with a teacher, or completing a morning routine independently.

Celebrate those victories. Every step forward builds confidence.

A Partnership for Success

Every new school year brings fresh opportunities to learn, grow, and discover new strengths. While there may be challenges along the way, preparation, communication, and flexibility can help children with special needs begin the year feeling supported and confident.

At the Theresa Foundation, we believe every child deserves opportunities to learn, grow, and participate fully in their community. Through grants supporting programs in art, music, dance, drama, and recreation, we're proud to help children with special needs discover new passions, build confidence, and reach their full potential—both inside and outside the classroom.

We wish all students, families, educators, and caregivers a happy, healthy, and successful school year!