The transition from summer to school can be exciting, but also overwhelming—especially for kids with developmental differences or sensory needs. As pediatric therapists, we know that preparing early and intentionally can make all the difference. Whether your child is starting preschool, kindergarten, or returning to a familiar classroom, these therapist-approved tips can help set the stage for a smooth and successful school year.
1. Create a Visual Schedule for Mornings
Consistency is calming. Create a simple, picture-based morning routine chart to help your child know what to expect. Include steps like getting dressed, brushing teeth, eating breakfast, and putting on shoes. Use real photos or clip-art visuals and walk through the schedule together. Download our free visual schedule here!
2. Practice the School Routine Before the First Day
A week or two before school starts, begin following the school-day routine: wake up at the usual time, get dressed, eat breakfast, and even go on a mock “commute.” This gives your child time to adjust gradually without the pressure of the actual first day.
3. Visit the School or Classroom Ahead of Time
If the school allows it, visit the building and classroom ahead of time. Walk the halls, meet the teacher, and show your child where they’ll put their backpack or sit for circle time. If an in-person visit isn’t possible, ask for photos or a virtual tour!
4. Use Social Stories or Role-Play to Explain Changes
Social stories and role-playing are great tools for explaining new experiences in a low-pressure way. Create a short story with photos or drawings about what your child can expect at school—and how they can ask for help if needed. Let them “play school” at home to practice.
Download our FREE “First Day of School” social story and our “Riding the Bus” social story.
5. Prep Sensory Supports for the Classroom and Backpack
If your child uses fidgets, noise-canceling headphones, chewies, or other sensory tools, start building those into your daily routine now. Label items clearly and talk to the teacher about your child’s sensory preferences and supports.
6. Get Back on a Sleep Schedule Gradually
Summer bedtimes tend to shift later, so it’s important to ease back into a school-year sleep routine. Move bedtime earlier by 15 minutes every few days until your child is getting enough rest to function well at school.
7. Encourage Independence with Daily Tasks
School requires a lot of independence—putting on shoes, opening lunchboxes, following directions. Practice these tasks at home this summer (and in therapy!) The more confident your child feels, the smoother the transition will be.
Starting the school year with preparation and support can reduce anxiety for both kids and parents. If you have concerns about your child’s readiness or need help creating routines, our therapy team is here to help! Reach out for more strategies personalized to your child’s needs.
Project Play Therapy | Pediatric Therapy That Meets Kids Where They Are
ChatGPT. (2025, June 3). Back to school transitions. Retrieved from https://chatgpt.com/. Reviewed and approved by our amazing team of therapists at Project Play!