Back to School Tips 2024

It's that time of year again!

As summer fades and we enter about the third week of school, the novelty of the new school year has worn off. Students are now facing their first tests, quizzes, and assignments. This can be a particularly stressful time for both parents and students, especially for neurodivergent children.

Here are 3 tips for fostering a smooth back-to-school transition.

TIP 1: Review & Preview

This concept is a key part of the 7 Week ADHD/Executive Function Parent Crash Course . To help develop metacognitive executive function skills—the ability to consider how present actions impact future outcomes—it’s crucial to ask children what went well last year and what they'd like to improve this year. It’s important to approach these conversations without shame or blame, focusing instead on curiosity, reflection, and setting positive intentions for the new school year.

I often use the Understood.org Back to School Worksheet in my one-on-one sessions with students at the start of the year. Rather than overwhelming them with all the questions at once, I introduce them gradually over multiple meetings. I encourage parents to explore this resource and pick two questions to discuss during a calm moment, such as at dinner, when there’s time for thoughtful reflection.

TIP 2: Send Introduction Emails to your Child’s Teachers

I highly recommend beginning the school year with open and clear communication with your child's teachers. At the start of the year, teachers are often overwhelmed with numerous 504 plans and IEPs. However, it's crucial to ensure that your child's teachers have a basic understanding of your child’s strengths and challenges and apply effective strategies. I suggest using this resource from ADDitude Magazine to help you draft an email to your child’s teachers. Sample Letter to Teacher.

Equally as important is your child’s awareness of their accommodations and commitment to self advocate within reason. It is helpful to do a role play with your child to help them learn the language to use when they realize their accommodation is not being followed.

Last but not least, make sure to schedule any 504/IEP meetings if things need to be added, subtracted or modified.

TIP 3: Practice Patience and Calm

The first semester can feel like a whirlwind, with students adjusting to new schedules, possibly adding or dropping classes, and making the big transition from summer to school mode.

During this time, your child needs you to stay calm and steady. They are relying on you to help them regulate their emotions, especially in these first few weeks. How you respond to their schedule changes or challenges will strongly influence how regulated or dysregulated they become.

You have the ability to remain calm, validate their feelings, and help them problem-solve. Reassuring them of their capability to handle these challenges is key to their success.

If you found the tips in this blog helpful and want more support and practical strategies, our 7-week ADHD/Executive Function Parent Crash Course is the perfect next step! This self-paced course is a great resource for busy parents looking to deepen their understanding and gain actionable tools to help their child thrive!

For a limited time, enjoy 10% off our 7-week ADHD/Executive Function Parent Crash Course with the code BACKTOSCHOOL at checkout! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to get expert strategies and resources—offer ends soon!