Some tips for parents of students with special education needs to help them prepare for the upcoming school year:
- Spend time to review last year’s Individual Education Plan (IEP) and in particular review your child’s statement of needs.
- Start talking with your child about returning to school in a positive way. This will help prepare them mentally for going back to school.
- Identify any new routines and skills your child will encounter at school this year.
- Make your child a partner in getting ready for back to school. Depending on their age and maturity level, let them pick out back to school clothes and supplies. In addition, have them participate in establishing parts of their schedule (i.e., when to wake up, homework time, and bedtime).
- If your child will be taking a school bus for the first time, find out if your school board has a student bus orientation program. This can include an opportunity to meet the driver and go over any special needs they should be aware of.