HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Children on the spectrum may find going back to school a little more challenging then their peers. Jenny Morris of Autism Alabama shared some ideas and tips to ease the return to school. One gem she shared was, "Don't avoid the challenges."
"Well, going back to school is challenging and it brings, You know, a set of anxiety that all kids are experiencing. and so being prepared for school is not just buying notebooks and pencils and a new pair of shoes,. [It's] you know, being mentally and physically prepared to start school. Don't avoid the challenges. Don't avoid talking about the challenges and the anxieties. You know, get ahead of it. not all in one conversation. Do it in different conversations, but, you know, be forward thinking about that and then, of course, continue that conversation throughout the school year. It's not just the start of school conversation." explains Morris.
Also , building a relationship with the teacher can big a help. Morris says, "We recommend that you talk to the teacher beforehand, that you even meet the teacher and that you can even write a letter to your teacher talking about your child's gifts and their opportunities and their challenges and their needs. You know, some of some kids might have an UEP and some of those things are addressed, but there's still a different perspective that comes from a parent."
An IEP, or Individual Education Program, is a contract that helps students with disabilities have a carefully structured plan for their needs. Morris says, "That is a contract between the parents and the caregivers and the school and the child to create a plan for each year for that child. and that item, that document in contract is updated annually, usually in the spring to prepare for the following year. It lays out some benchmarks and goals that the school and the parents have for the child.
And for parents who need help, there are support groups in the area. Morris called them "connect groups". "We have a connect group in Huntsville that is that's been around for a long time, since 2006, I believe. and it's called Making Connections. and they do activities and outings for parents and for kids of all ages, and informational meetings as well."