As the summer holidays continue, many families will be thinking ahead to September and the changes it may bring. Whether your child is moving to a new school, starting a new year group, or transitioning to college, this can be an exciting but sometimes challenging time – especially for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). These tips may help you with that transition.
While schools are currently closed, there are still plenty of things families can do over the summer to help ease the transition and support their child’s wellbeing. Below are ten practical tips that you can explore at home, at your own pace.
1. Getting Familiar with the New Setting
If possible, take a walk or drive past your child’s new school or college. Seeing the building and surroundings can help reduce anxiety and build familiarity. You might even take photos to create a visual story together.
2. Creating a Summer Routine
Keeping a consistent daily routine over the summer can help ease the transition back to school. Visual timetables or planners can be a helpful way to structure the day, especially for children who benefit from predictability. An online search can help you to find various planners, or creating one might be an activity for a rainy summers day.
Further reading from the Council for Disabled Children- what are visual timetables and how can they help?
3. Talking About Change
Talk with your child about what September might look like. Using clear, reassuring language and visual supports can help children understand and feel more confident.
4. Practising Key Skills
Use the summer to practise everyday skills like packing a school bag, using a lunchbox, or dressing independently. These small steps can build confidence and help children feel more in control.
5. Creating a ‘My Profile’ Sheet
A “My Profile” sheet is a simple way for your child to share information about themselves with new staff. It can include their likes, dislikes, strengths, and support needs.
6. Managing Back-to-School Anxiety
It’s normal for children to feel anxious about change. Calming activities such as breathing exercises, sensory play, or quiet time can help. There are also many free resources available to support emotional wellbeing.
Further reading from the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy(BACP) – 8 ways to help you child with Back-to-School Anxiety
Further links from the Local Offer – Is my child anxious?
7. Preparing for Transport
If your child will be using new transport in September, practise the route if possible. Talk through what to expect and who to ask for help. This can help build confidence and reduce uncertainty.
8. Building a Transition Scrapbook
Creating a scrapbook with your child about their new setting can be a fun and creative way to explore the upcoming changes. Include photos, drawings, and notes about what they’re looking forward to.
9. Connecting with Other Families
Reach out to other parents or carers whose children are moving to the same setting. Sharing experiences can help everyone feel more supported. Local parent forums and online groups can be a good place to start.
The official forum for BCP area is Parent Carers Together.
Further tips from them – Top tips to prepare for the return to school by PCT
Other local parent carer groups – Local Offer parent forums
10. SENDiass4BCP Is Here to Help
If you have questions about your child’s transition, SENDiass4BCP offers free, confidential advice. We’re here to support you over the summer. You can contact us via our Contact Us page, or by or phone – details are available on the Contact Us page.
