Returning to school after the long summer break is exciting – but it also comes with many emotions and challenges. Students with learning differences, in particular, may find it difficult to jump back into a school year than their neurotypical peers.

Families can take a number of steps to reduce anxiety during these first weeks and throughout the school year. And these tips aren’t just for families with neurodivergent kids. At Miriam, we know that what’s critical for some is actually good for all.

Please remember that sleep is ESSENTIAL. None of us can operate as our best selves without enough sleep, but this is especially true for children who may be dealing with anxiety, emotional regulation challenges, or learning needs. 

Speaking of sleep, while it may seem counterintuitive because we want our kids to get as much sleep as possible, it is actually better to get up on time than to squeeze in an extra 15 minutes of sleep. Those 15 minutes of sleep won’t make much difference, but having to rush through the morning routine can get the day off on the wrong foot. Kids need time for breakfast (including a protein) and movement.

At Miriam, every student in grades K-8 starts their day with a sensory diet in the occupational therapy room. This 15-minute rotation through various activities – swinging, climbing, crashing – gives students the sensory input their bodies need in order to be open to learning.

Your kids can find the same benefit by moving their bodies at home! Send them outside to swing, or to ride their bike to the corner and back. Or create an indoor obstacle course that includes jumping jacks, pushups, and twirls. This movement – even if it’s just for a few minutes – can make such a difference in their school day.

Meg Bamford, head of Miriam School and Learning Center, has advice about working with the school team to advocate for your child. 

“First, presume positive intent. You all want the best for your student. Working with school personnel as a team will make it so much easier.”

Don’t be afraid to talk with teachers and other team members about what works for your student, Bamford says. If you know something at home or in previous years at school that has helped when your student is anxious or dysregulated, tell them. This will only help to get everyone on the same page.

At home, talk with your kids about their routine and their school day. Talking these things through when anxiety is low is very helpful. Remind your child that they are strong and capable. Talk about what has gone right and how they have grown over the years. 

You can also discuss accommodations or strategies with your child. What has helped them find success in the past? What tools can help their day go more smoothly? Perhaps they need to take a fidget to class, practice deep breathing or counting, or get a sip of water when they need a minute. Tell them that it is ok to advocate for themselves! A little self-advocacy will go a long way on the path to success.

Even if there are still struggles in your household after the first few weeks of school, don’t get discouraged. Bamford says that, depending on the child and their needs, the adjustment period could be longer than anticipated.

Different disabilities actually affect this period, as well. She says students who have anxiety or are on the autism spectrum often struggle with the idea of going back to school and take several weeks to adjust. 

Students with ADHD and/or learning disabilities may seem to adjust much more quickly, but then start running into challenges after the first six weeks of school. Bamford says this is because in the first few weeks, teachers and students are often reviewing older lessons that they’ve learned previously and have confidence in doing. When they start new material, kids with that profile may start to struggle.

Continue to check in with your child and with their teachers and try to find the good in every day, even when it’s a challenge.

There is no doubt that the back-to-school season can be overwhelming, but with thoughtful routines and open communication, the transition can become more manageable for everyone involved. By prioritizing sleep, movement, and emotional check-ins, families can help set their children up for a successful school year. Remember, progress will look different for every child, and that’s okay. Stay patient and celebrate the small wins - because each one is a step forward.