The summer is over, and the yellow school bus is coming around the corner. Are you ready? Is your child ready? Check out this 2021 back to school checklist for parents of special needs kids.
You may be having mixed emotions about sending your child to school this year. Some children are excited to see their friends, while others are not ready to face the school year with its challenges.
In the past two years, the education setting has changed drastically. Many schools were virtual for the majority of the past year. Some of the students were blessed to be in person for some of the year. However, everyone had to experience change within their school setting.
As your child begins to transition back to school, here are some things to help them prepare for school.
2021 Back to School Checklist for Parents of Special Needs Kids
Transportation
As a parent, it’s super important to make sure that you and your family are all on the same page regarding transportation.
- Will your child ride the school bus?
- Will you or your spouse be driving your child to and from school?
- Do you have a backup plan for when either of these falls through?
It is essential to ensure that you tell the school about your child’s transportation needs before the beginning of the school year.
Supplies
Many local communities often share supply lists for schools. These lists often give you information on what supplies to purchase based on the grade level or classroom teacher.
You can usually find school supply lists at local retailers in your area. You can also ask the teacher for any additional supplies your child will need to start the year.
Organization in the Home
Many families often try different ways to keep things organized during the week for their families. Here are great ideas I have heard to help get organized for back to school:
- Use a system to plan out outfits for the week. Many children enjoy picking out their clothes for themselves. This is a great way to have your child become more independent by preparing for each week. Check out these ideas for organizing kid’s clothes.
- Your family can use a calendar to organize your schedule. You can set one up in the entryway or common area in the house to look at before heading out the door.
- It is vital to have a quiet place for your child to study and do homework at home.
- Having one specific spot to keep backpacks and school papers will help the family get out the door quicker in the morning. Try one of these backpack storage ideas.
Discussing the Changes
As a parent, you should also have a conversation with your child about how the school may look different than last year. Many things may have changed because of Covid, such as:
- Schedule changes
- Recess eliminated or new rules established
- Sports eliminated
- Structure of the classroom
They should also be prepared to wear a mask if schools are mandated to wear a mask.
Additional 2021 Back to School Checklist Ideas
Back-to-school time can be stressful for parents of special needs children, but you don’t have to do it alone. Use this checklist as a starting point, and feel free to add or subtract items based on your family’s specific situation. What else would help make back-to-school easier? Feel free to share in the comments below.
Check out these additional resources to help your child get off to a fantastic start this next school year!
- 5 Simple Ideas To Help When Transitioning To A New School District
- The First Step in Transition Planning for Special Education Students
- 5 Super-Easy Back To School Tips For Your High Schooler
- Back To School – Round 2
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