From Summer to School: Making the Transition Easier for Your Child

The shift from long summer days to busy school mornings can feel tough for many children. For autistic children, the change in routine may feel even more overwhelming. While summer often brings flexibility, school adds schedules, homework, and new social expectations. Parents can make this transition smoother by preparing early and using strategies backed by research.

Why Transitions Are Hard

Autistic children often rely on routines to feel safe and comfortable. When routines change, it can cause stress, anxiety, or behavioral challenges. According to the American Psychiatric Association, many autistic individuals show strong preferences for sameness, making transitions like returning to school more difficult (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

A study in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders found that predictable routines and structured supports help reduce stress and improve school readiness in autistic students (Ben-Itzchak & Zachor, 2007). This shows how important it is to start preparing for changes before the first day of school.

Start with Small Changes

Instead of waiting until the night before school, parents can begin shifting routines a couple of weeks earlier. For example, if bedtime becomes later during summer, move it back slowly, 10 to 15 minutes earlier each night. A study in Sleep Medicine Reviews explains that gradual changes in sleep routines help children adapt better and reduce bedtime struggles (Mindell & Williamson, 2018).

Morning routines can also be practiced. Try having your child wake up, get dressed, and eat breakfast at the same time they will during the school year. Practicing the steps makes the process more familiar and less stressful.

Use Visual Schedules

Visual supports are powerful tools for autistic children. A simple chart with pictures showing steps like brushing teeth, packing a backpack, and getting on the bus can guide children through their morning. Research shows that visual schedules increase independence and reduce anxiety for autistic students (Dettmer et al., 2000).

Parents can also use a calendar to count down the days until school starts. This makes the transition more predictable and gives children time to prepare mentally.

Visit the School Early

If possible, arrange a visit to the school before classes begin. Walking through the building, meeting the teacher, and seeing the classroom can make the new environment feel less intimidating. According to the National Autistic Society, familiarization visits help reduce anxiety and build confidence for students with autism (NAS, 2021).

Focus on Strengths and Comfort

Children do best when they feel supported and understood. Celebrate small successes, whether it is getting dressed on time or calmly entering the classroom. Packing a comfort item, such as a fidget toy or a favorite pencil, can also ease the transition.

Final Thoughts

Transitions are not always easy, but with preparation and patience, children can adjust successfully from summer back to school. By using small changes, visual supports, and early practice, parents can make the start of the school year a positive experience. Step by step, these strategies help children feel more confident and ready to learn.

Do you want extra support to help your child transition smoothly from summer to school? At Autism Envisioned, our tutoring services are designed to guide autistic children with personalized learning and routines that build confidence and success. Let us help your child start the school year strong.

References

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425596

Ben-Itzchak, E., & Zachor, D. A. (2007). The effects of intellectual functioning and autism severity on the outcome of early behavioral intervention for children with autism. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 37(4), 628–636.

Dettmer, S., Simpson, R. L., Myles, B. S., & Ganz, J. B. (2000). The use of visual supports to facilitate transitions of students with autism. Focus on Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities, 15(3), 163–169.

Mindell, J. A., & Williamson, A. A. (2018). Benefits of a bedtime routine in young children: Sleep, development, and beyond. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 40, 93–108. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2017.10.007

National Autistic Society (NAS). (2021). Preparing for school transitions.