Facing A New School Year
We all know going back to school after a relaxing summer isn't easy for anyone. But for our exceptional kids, it can be a real source of worry.
We are still a little over three weeks before we head back, but we're already seeing some anxiety appear at our house. Do we know who his new teacher is yet? Will it be a nice one? Will he get split up from his friends this year? Honestly, I share a lot of the same worries... and more! Will he find the work too difficult this year? How will he handle a new classroom? What kind of new tics are going to show up?
It feels like a lot is out of control when it comes to sending your child away to school for the day. Thankfully we've found a few things we DO have some control over that can make a difference. Maybe they will encourage you too!
Get bedtime under control BEFORE the first day of school
We always go to my in-law's trailer for the Labour Day weekend - it's a tradition! It's hard to keep a bedtime in check when we're trying to squeeze every last drop of summer out, but it's worth it to not be making last-minute major adjustments. I can't expect them to wake up early and cheery when they've been up late the night before! When the kids were younger, I would move their bedtime and wakeup time in the morning by 15-minute increments over a week or so when we needed to make an adjustment. While I don't go that hardcore at this point, I still try to slowly shift sleep over a few days to ease everyone into it. Despite my best summer schedule intentions, we've definitely gotten off track with sleep this summer!
Think beyond the usual school supplies list
Are there things your child can keep in their desk that will be helpful? A special pen or pencil or pencil grip? A fidget? I'm always on the lookout for something that will bring a little comfort or sense of home to a noisy, busy environment. We've found a few things over the years that are specific to Eli's OCD aversions that are a great help.
Be prepared to advocate
Usually advocating goes beyond just an IEP. Don't be afraid to ask for what you know your child needs to be successful! The more information you can give a new teacher, the better. They will feel more confident in their role knowing they have a good understanding of your child, and your child can also rest assured that the teacher is in the know.
Find ways to relax after the school day is done
When it comes to living with Tourette Syndrome, we've found there is usually a release of tics and general energy after school that have been held back all day. Since we have a bit of a commute back home, I always come armed with a snack to have on the drive, rather than wait until we get there. We've also found it useful to set aside some quiet time of some sort to decompress from the day once we're home, whether that's laying down in bed for a little bit, watching a show, or playing a video game.
Plan something to look forward to
Starting a new school year can feel daunting. Summer is just behind you, and Christmas is so far away! We tend to plan a weekend trip away somewhere in the fall to break things up a bit. It doesn't have to be anything fancy, but it gives us all a goal to work towards and something fun to countdown to!
If you have any tips for starting the new school year off right, share them below!
