Back to School Checklist

It’s hard to believe, but the new school year is just around the corner! Whether you’re feeling excited, overwhelmed, or a bit of both, you’re not alone, especially if you’re an IEP parent!

To help ease the transition, we’ve put together some quick, practical tips to help your family get ready for both at home and with your child’s IEP team so your child can start the year strong and supported.

1. Ease into routines early: Start shifting bedtime, wake-up time, and meal schedules at least 1–2 weeks before school begins. Predictability helps ease anxiety and sets your child up for success.
2. Visit the school before the first day (especially if it’s new): If possible, visit the school, classroom, or meet the teacher ahead of time. Even just looking at photos online or driving by the building can help ease uncertainty. Show your child key areas like the classroom, bathroom, lunchroom, nurse’s office, and any therapy spaces
3. Create a calendar or checklist: Many kids benefit from knowing what to expect. Use pictures or simple lists to help them see what their day will look like.
4. Talk about what’s coming: Have open conversations about going back to school focusing on things that may be the same or different. Talk through what the first day might look like and allow space for questions or worries. Acknowledge your child’s feelings about school, excitement, worry, or both.
5. Revisit coping tools: Remind your child of the calming or self-regulation strategies that work for them. Practice these in the days leading up to the first day.

Get Your Child’s IEP Ready: What to Review Now

1. Re-read the IEP before school starts: It’s easy to forget the details over the summer! Look at goals, accommodations, and services to make sure everything is still relevant and appropriate for your child. 
2. Check for updated needs: Has your child made progress or regressed over the summer? Make note of anything that may need adjusting in the IEP once school starts. 
3. Confirm their service delivery: Make sure that the IEP reflects the correct frequency and duration of services (e.g., speech, OT, reading instruction) so there’s no confusion once school begins.
4. Consider a back-to-school letter or “About Me” page: Write a short note to your child’s teacher(s) to introduce your child, highlight strengths, explain any key accommodations, and share tips that work well for your child. This is a great way to set a collaborative tone!
5. Request a check-in meeting, if needed: If there were concerns last year or changes over the summer, consider requesting a meeting with your child’s Team early in the year to ensure everyone is on the same page.

The start of a new school year is a great opportunity to reset and make sure your child has what they need to thrive in school. The more prepared you feel, the more supported they will feel. Every child adjusts differently. Giving your child the chance to preview, practice, and process what’s coming can make a world of difference. 

Remember, you are your child’s biggest advocate and these small steps can lead to big successes! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help reviewing their IEP, drafting a back-to-school letter, or advocating for services. We’re here to help! Wishing you and your family a smooth and successful start to the school year!