by Paula Pompa-Craven, Psy.D.
Chief Clinical Officer, Autism Services
The coronavirus pandemic has lasted longer than most families expected. As we continue to face uncertainties around COVID-19, the return to school may have families with students on the autism spectrum especially anxious about navigating the re-opening.
Back to in-person learning
They say that planning is the key to success. So when it comes to preparing your student for a return to school, the key is to plan, plan, plan. Help your student adjust to a new routine by preparing them for what to expect, from mask mandates to rotating schedules. There may be new requirements for in-person learning related to temperature checks, mask wearing, social distancing, classroom seats, air filtration, and more. Read your school’s plan for reopening and talk to your student. You can also use a Social Story, visual schedule or calendar, photos, or even a walk-thru of school in advance to help prepare.
Schedules may be different at first, with some schools doing partial days or alternate days. This is where a family calendar can be an important tool to use. As a family, work together on what to expect as it may shift from day-to-day.
Be sure to take time to talk with your student about their feelings around returning to school, or the fear they may have about COVID-19. When you can, use facts about the safety and protection the COVID-19 vaccines offer to give some peace of mind.
Routines
If the school day is flexible, it’ll be even more important to emphasize structure and routine at home to help with learning, consistency, and anxiety. Using calendars or schedules with pictures can be a helpful addition to the building of a consistent routine. Be sure to schedule in some time to take a break from screens since many students can develop techno stress from long days in front of their computer. Along with screen breaks, getting proper sleep, diet and exercise can help students reduce their stress levels, too.
Environment
As your student returns to school, there are also environmental arrangements to consider. New environments may have new expectations for activity levels or even mask wearing. Work with your child on getting comfortable wearing a mask for long periods of time.
For children and adults with autism and sensory sensitivities, wearing a mask can be an additional challenge. Easterseals worked with Rafi Nova, a socially conscious family company that focuses on travel accessories, to create and test sensory masks for kids and adults, that could provide more comfort during this difficult time.
Taking the time to review, plan, and establish as much of a routine as possible can not only help reduce anxiety for the student and their family, but will help everyone start on a path of success for the entire school year.
Leave A Comment