Our Occupational Therapist has provided 5 tips to consider to support your child as they transition back to school after the summer months.

1. Re-establish Daily Routines Gradually (Sleep, Hygiene, Meals):
   Why it matters: Practicing predictable school routines in advance will reduce the amount of change that happens when your child returns to school, which will in return reduce anxiety and improve regulation.

          Strategies:

• Use visual schedules to outline the morning, after-school, and evening routines.
• Introduce school-time wake-up and bedtimes 2–3 weeks before school starts.
• Use timers or visual countdowns to support transitions (e.g., “10 minutes until bed”).

2. Practice Executive Functioning Skills:
   Why it matters: Practicing the steps involved in the “going to school” routine will help this process run more smoothly when it comes time to go to school. It will also make this process more comfortable and familiar for your child.

          Strategies:

• Practice “getting ready” dry runs (packing a bag, dressing, eating, and leaving the house).
• Use checklists or first-then boards to support task sequencing.
• Introduce a “morning launch pad”—a consistent place to keep school items ready.

3. Build Tolerance for Structured Activities:
   Why it matters: School often requires increased attention for task completion, more seated work, and some tolerance for less-preferred activities.

          Strategies:

• Gradually increase time spent in structured play (e.g., crafts, board games, Lego with a goal).
• Consider a sensory diet to meet regulation needs before and after structured activities.
• Introduce “work then reward” routines to build frustration tolerance.

4. Address Emotional Readiness and Separation Anxiety:

          Why it matters: Emotional self-regulation supports school success and social participation.

          Strategies:

• Read back-to-school books or use social stories to prepare for common situations.
• Practice separation routines (wave at door, hug routine, goodbye object).
• Create an emotions check-in routine for expressing feelings. Visuals can be helpful when doing this!

5. Collaborate with Educators and Providers:

          Why it matters: Consistency between home and school environments improves carryover and success

          Strategies:

• Offer an “All About Me” document to educators to help them learn about your child’s likes, dislikes, and support needs (e.g., how to support regulation, transitions, etc.).
• Consider consultation from your therapy provider to the school to help to adapt classroom routines/environment as needed.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with our Occupational Therapist, or join our waitlist, give us a call at 519.751.0728. Our OT has many years of experience supporting children and youth so that they can enjoy life to the fullest!