Coping with neurodiverse children and preparing them for the new school term can be a challenging time for everyone involved. For children, it can often be an anxious time as the new school year approaches. They may be worried about how they will cope with so many new experiences. For adults, it can be challenging to know how to best prepare a neurodiverse child for changes ahead. However, with just a little time and understanding adults can prepare children for school getting them excited and happy about what’s to come. And remember, if you would like to find out more about the types of support available to help neurodiverse children, the East Dunbartonshire Citizens Advice Bureau can help point the way.
What does ‘neurodiverse’ mean?
Neurodiversity is a framework for understanding human brain function. Everyone’s brains work differently, and some work even more differently from the average or ‘neurotypical’ person. “Neurodivergent” isn’t a medical term, condition or diagnosis but people who identify themselves as such can have conditions including ADHD (attention deficit hyper-activity disorder), autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, dyspraxia, sensory processing disorders as well as many others. You can find out more about neurodiversity here.
So someone – an adult or a child – who describes themselves as neurodivergent can have very different symptoms to another person who describes themselves as such too. This means it’s important to treat everyone as an individual with their own particular needs. However there are some ways caregivers can offer more general support to those who need it.
Getting ready for school term
Switching from holiday mode to school mode can be tricky for neurodiverse children. Going from a period of relaxation and doing things at their own pace to one where they need to be at a certain place by a certain time can be difficult. Many neurodiverse children thrive on structure, and so introducing school routines towards the end of the holidays can help them slip more easily from one to the other. This can include going to bed at specific times and waking up in the morning, perhaps even getting used to an alarm. Having meal times to coincide with snack/lunchtimes at school might help. This can all help set up a schedule for how the school day will run.
Additionally, let your child have a say in the preparation process. Allow them to pick out school supplies, choose outfits and select their backpack. Small decisions like these can make them feel more in control about the new term.
They might even start to look forward to it!
Talk about what’s going to happen
Communication is key to easing the worries of your child and preparing them for school. It’s important to talk openly about what to expect, addressing any concerns they might have. It may be they are worried about issues which have not crossed your mind. Using clear, simple language and visual aids like stories or role-playing can help demystify the starting or returning to school. You could talk about what the school day will look like, from what to do when you arrive at the school gates, some of the games they might play there and what to do if they feel scared whilst in the classroom.
If your child has been at nursery or is in P7 then they may have already had a few visits to their new school to prepare them for term. However, it can be helpful to reach out to teachers and support staff to share insights about your child’s needs, triggers and strengths. This can help foster a supportive environment. Many schools are equipped with resources and strategies to assist neurodiverse students, and developing a plan together with the school can set your child up for success.
One day at a time
At all times it’s important to remember that flexibility is key. What works well one day may not work at all the next with your child. Being patient and listening to their needs can often be the best first step in understanding how to help.
If you need more help with neurodiverse children or mental health issues, speak to us and we will be able to help point you in the right direction. Make an appointment with us today.
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