Preparing for the new school year is physically and emotionally taxing for parents and children. This is even truer for students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) because they cannot quickly adapt to changes in their environment. They are accustomed to the stability of routine and their environment. The sudden transition may pose unique challenges when not planned well.

In this article, we will briefly explore what are autism spectrum disorders’ unique challenges when transitioning to school life and some strategies to prepare children with autism spectrum disorder effectively. We will also find out how Mylo Speech Therapy can be a helpful tool in this endeavor.

Transitioning Challenges of a Student with Autism Spectrum

A Student with Autism Spectrum May Experience Sensory Issues

A change in environment brings differences in lighting and noise levels. This will result in sensory overload for a child with autism. Changing the setting’s layout and disrupting their established routine can cause distress.

Communication Difficulties May Also Arise

One of the common manifestations of autism spectrum disorder is speech delay. Children with autism have different levels of communication skills – from non-verbal to verbal.

Placing them in a setting where they need to interact with other children when they have difficulty expressing themselves or understanding others is a highly stressful situation for them. How does speech therapy work in this case? It will help improve communication and social interaction.

This All Culminates in Behavioral Issues

A student with autism does not understand the abstract concepts involving transitioning, such as new behavioral expectations in a new environment. This can trigger their stress and anxiety, causing meltdowns and temper tantrums.

Effective Transition Strategies for a Student with Autism Spectrum

Avoiding these mentioned challenges requires specific strategies to help children with autism thrive in school.

Prepare Early

Communicate clearly with your child to help them understand the change that’s about to happen. Allow them to familiarize themselves with the new environment by visiting the school and meeting their new teachers before school starts. Slowly establish a new routine so they can adjust accordingly.

Use Visual Support

Consistent use of visual schedules will help a student with autism spectrum better understand the sequence of activities, resulting in a successful transition. You can use images, printed-out checklists, or other visual aids.

Create an Individualized Education Plan (IEP)

An assessment is conducted to understand the child’s strengths, weaknesses, and special needs. It will help outline the specific goals and accommodations for the child, ensuring progress and successful development.

Maintain Home-School Collaboration

The collaboration among parents, teachers, and exceptional education professionals is crucial in ensuring consistent and comprehensive support for the needs of a child with ASD. 

Develop Essential Skills

Focus on building essential skills, such as communication, social interactions, and self-regulation, that will aid the student in navigating the school environment.

Help Improve Your Child’s Communication Skills with the Mylo Speech Therapy

When transitioning to school, build your child’s confidence by developing their communication skills. What speech therapy exercises has your child tried? The Mylo app is now the leading speech therapy at-home tool that supports your child’s communication development, supplementing the speech therapy sessions from a professional. Begin your free 7-day trial here!