144. [SPECIAL EDUCATION EDITION] From Worries to Wins; Preparing for the New School Year

As the new school year begins, I know many of you may be feeling a mix of emotions - excitement, anxiety, and maybe for some of you, a bit of sadness as summer comes to an end. For our children on the spectrum, this transition can be particularly challenging.

Open communication and collaboration with your child's school team will pave the way for your child's success. Communicating with your child’s teacher is critical to their success at school and in the classroom. You can be a tremendous resource in helping your child have a smooth transition into a new classroom with a new teacher. Share information about your child's strengths, and challenges, and share with them what has and hasn’t worked in the past.

Make sure you are well informed about the services and accommodations your child is entitled to and advocate for them if necessary.

If you’ve been with me for any amount of time, you know I always say that if your child is going to need additional educational support, learning and understanding Special Education isn’t optional, it is necessary. 

Transitions can be especially difficult for our kids on the spectrum. They might struggle with new people to meet, new routines to learn, and the sensory overload of a busy school environment.

Mindset matters and managing your expectations is crucial. Instead of expecting everything to fall into place immediately, recognize that progress takes time. and it's okay if things don't go perfectly from day one. Focus on small victories, celebrate them, and remember that changing your perspective can make a world of difference.

Remember, building their independence is a gradual process, and each child may require different levels of support and guidance.

I want to encourage you to remember that the new school year might have its challenges, but with the right support and strategies, it can be a rewarding experience for both you and your child.

Believe in yourself and your ability to advocate for their needs.  I wish you and your children a wonderful new school year filled with making memories and above all endless possibilities for their continued growth and development.

If you want to learn strategies and tools that you can use to improve your life along this autism parenting journey, be sure to get over and get registered for our FREE Course, Unburdened; Finding Balance Living Alongside Autism 

⁠www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/freecourse ⁠

It is a self-paced video course that will help you reduce your stress and overwhelm and show up better every day.

Additional Resources:

⁠These are a few of our most downloaded Special Education Editions.

We have these and many others too. It's important that you understand what your expectation should and shouldn't be.

⁠Episode 124. What to Do When They Say No [SPECIAL EDUCATION EDITION]⁠

⁠Episode 27. Special Education Things You Should Know [SPECIAL EDUCATION EDITION]

Episode 35. Early Intervention and IFSP Explained [SPECIAL EDUCATION EDITION]

Episode 73. Let's Clear Up the Confusion About Category of Eligibility [SPECIAL EDUCATION EDITION]