Whether it’s their first day of preschool or kindergarten or they’re returning to school, there are things you can do as a parent to help your child with disabilities transition to a new routine and to be successful.
The goal is to remove some of the fear of the unknown while providing love and encouragement.
TIPS FOR HELPING YOUR CHILD PREPARE FOR SCHOOL.
- Visit the school with your child, especially if this is their first school experience. Even if they can’t go inside, a visit will make them familiar with how it looks and the location.
- Talk about them being successful, making new friends, trying new activities, enjoying recess, etc. “I just know you’re going to make lots of new friends!” can be just the encouragement they need.
- Encourage them to express their concerns and let them ask questions. You might have to ask questions first.
- Review the school day routine.
- Discuss bedtime and why it’s important
- Develop a morning routine and follow it.
- Let them shop with you for food for their lunch box.
- Teach them how to make all or part of their lunch. Encourage them to start the night before.
- Let them pick out a new outfit to make the first day more special.
- Let them shop for school supplies with you and talk about using them.
- Teach them positive affirmations. Post some in their room, bathroom or place them at the breakfast table.
- Celebrate their successes, big and small!
- Record accomplishments on a calendar so they can see them.
- Offer a simple reward for a job well done.
- Stickers
- A small snack
- Little gifts from the Dollar store
- Hugs and kisses!
- Document their school journey with photos and videos.
- Display individual photos or send them to their phone (if applicable).
- Give them a simple digital photo frame so they can see themselves and celebrate what they’ve accomplished.
YOU ARE YOUR CHILDS BEST ADVOCATE.
Under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act), eligible children with disabilities are entitled to receive a free and appropriate (FAPE) public education. The Individual Education Plan (IEP) is a document for children in special education programs. It is the guide for the school and the teachers and documents the classes, services, therapies and modification your child needs.
Remember that you are and always will be your child’s best advocate! You need to be present and involved to make sure your child is getting the education that best fits their needs and learning style.
- Keep lines of communication open with the school. This includes teachers, counselors, administrators, and police officers on campus (if applicable). Get to know them and let them know you support them.
- Make sure your child education team has all your contact information and that you have theirs as well.
- Visit often. You have the right to be at the school any time and check in on your child. Feel free to schedule these visits in advance but know you can visit unannounced. This tells the school and faculty that you plan to be involved in your child’s education.
- Help the teachers and administrators know your child on a more personal level. You might share their likes and dislikes, favorite books, any health conditions your child has or other details that you think are important.
- Volunteer for special school events and field trips when you can.
With a little bit of planning, your child with disabilities can be successful and supported. Do you have additional questions? “Blessed with Extraordinary: Support and resources for children with Down Syndrome” covers many of these topics and more. It is a toolkit, a roadmap, and a guide for parents and caregivers.
You can find the book and more information at www.blessedwithextraordinary.com. Empowering Families | Educating Communities | Celebrating Down Syndrome
Linda Bonner is a parent, author, speaker, and disability advocate
