As the summer winds down and the back-to-school season approaches, many parents and educators are preparing for the transition back into structured routines. For children, particularly those with special needs, this shift can be challenging. In this blog, we’re sharing our top tips and favorite tools to help make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Tips for Adapting to Back-to-School Routines

1. Establish a Consistent Schedule: Consistency is key to helping children feel secure and understand what to expect each day. Create a visual schedule that includes all daily activities, from waking up and getting dressed to school time and bedtime.

2. Practice New Routines: Before school starts, practice new routines with your child. This can include walking to the bus stop, packing a backpack, or going through a morning routine. Familiarity can ease anxiety and build confidence.

3. Communicate and Listen: Talk to your child about the upcoming changes and listen to their concerns. Use tools like the Conversation Cubes to facilitate these discussions in a fun and engaging way.

4. Incorporate Breaks and Downtime: Transitioning back to school can be tiring. Make sure to include regular breaks and downtime in your child’s schedule to help them recharge and avoid burnout.

5. Use Visual Aids: Tools like the Time Tracker Mini and visual schedules can help children understand and manage their time and activities. Visual aids are especially helpful for children who thrive on predictability and routine.

Our Favourite Products for Back-to-School

EazyHold 7 Pack: a complete game-changer for children who struggle with fine motor skills! These flexible, silicone adaptive aids fit over utensils, pens, toothbrushes, and more, enabling children to grasp and use these items independently. As routines begin to include more self-care and classroom activities, EazyHold helps children build confidence and independence. They’re perfect for use in both home and school settings, supporting children in daily tasks and learning activities.

Conversation Cubes: Communication is key in any educational environment. Conversation Cubes are a fun and interactive way to encourage children to express themselves, share experiences, and engage in meaningful dialogue with peers and teachers. Each cube features different questions or prompts, sparking creativity and conversation. These cubes are an excellent tool for morning meetings, social skills groups, or as a fun icebreaker activity to help children feel more comfortable and engaged as they adapt to new routines and environments.

Time Tracker Mini: Understanding and managing time is a crucial skill for children, especially when adjusting to school routines. The Time Tracker Mini is a visual timer that uses lights and sounds to signal transitions and the passage of time. This tool can help children anticipate changes in activities, understand the concept of time management, and stay on task. Whether it’s during homework, playtime, or classroom activities, the Time Tracker Mini is a supportive aid that helps children manage their time more effectively and independently.

Social-Emotional Activities Kit: Emotional regulation and social skills are essential components of a successful school experience. This kit offers a variety of engaging activities designed to help children identify and manage their emotions, develop empathy, and build positive social interactions. This includes games, role-playing scenarios, and other hands-on activities that are perfect for both home and classroom use.

By incorporating these tools and strategies, parents and educators can support children in adapting to new school routines with confidence and ease. As we gear up for another school year, let’s focus on creating a supportive and engaging environment where every child can thrive. Happy back-to-school season!