Creating a transition plan

Transitioning from primary to secondary school is a significant time for all children, but it can be particularly challenging for those on the autism spectrum.

Understanding these challenges and preparing can make the transition smoother and more successful for your child. 

Understanding the transition challenges

Long commutes

Travelling a long distance to school can add more stress to the day. It's important to consider the commute's impact on your child’s daily routine and energy levels. Exploring options such as adjusted school hours or transport accommodations can help reduce stress.‍

Leaving familiar surroundings

Moving from a familiar primary school to a new secondary school environment involves leaving behind known friends and trusted teachers. This change can trigger anxiety and a sense of loss in your child. Keeping in touch with old friends and gradually introducing the new school can ease this transition.‍

Social overwhelm

Meeting new people and adjusting to a larger school environment can be overwhelming. Autistic children often find large social settings challenging. Preparing your child through social stories, school visits, and gradual introductions can be beneficial.

Building a support system

Transition team

Forming a transition team can provide crucial support. Ideally, This team should include members from current and future schools and professionals such as a psychologist who understands your child's needs. The team aims to ensure continuity in care and education during the transition.

Psychometric and therapy assessments

While potentially costly, updated assessments like psychometric tests and speech and occupational therapy evaluations can provide invaluable information to the new school about your child’s needs. These assessments help tailor educational strategies that best support your child’s learning and integration.

Utilising available resources

Many resources are available to assist with transitions. Websites like Amaze offer comprehensive transition plans specifically designed for children on the autism spectrum. These resources often include checklists and planning tools that can be customised to fit your child’s needs.

Practical tips for transitioning

Familiarisation with the new school

Spend as much time as possible at the new school before the term starts. Familiarity with the environment can significantly reduce anxiety. Using photographs and videos of the school can also help your child adjust to the new settings from the comfort of home.

Gradual introduction

Starting with half-days or attending just a few days a week can help ease your child into the new routine, allowing them to adapt to the new environment without gradually becoming overwhelmed. Regular mental health days are essential. They provide a break and help manage stress, benefiting the child and the entire family. It is crucial to recognise signs of fatigue and stress early on and address them promptly.‍

Rights and advocacy

Awareness of your and your child’s rights within the educational system is crucial. This knowledge can empower you to advocate for the necessary accommodations and support.‍

Managing co-occurring conditions

If your child has other conditions like ADHD or anxiety, managing these effectively is key. Proper treatment and strategies tailored to these conditions can improve overall functioning and well-being.‍

Realistic academic expectations

Setting realistic academic expectations and communicating these with your child’s educators is important. Not all children will keep up with their peers in a mainstream environment, and that's okay. Emphasise skills and subjects where your child excels and explore practical learning and non-academic paths for the future.‍

Social opportunities

Encourage friendships with children who share similar interests or challenges. Nurturing these friendships can provide social support and improve your child’s school experience. Explore the school's extracurricular activities and lunch social groups.‍

Handling homework

If homework proves too challenging, understand that it's acceptable for your child to have adjustments and accommodations. Discuss this with the teachers to ensure this approach is part of your child’s educational plan.