10 Back to School Tips for Supporting Neurodiverse Children

The return to school can be exciting for some children, but for many neurodiverse children it brings

big emotions: anxiety, sensory overwhelm, and worry about change. If you’re a parent or carer, you

may already know that September mornings can feel like the toughest part of the year.

The good news? With preparation, reassurance, and the right calming strategies, going back to

school can be a little easier. Here are 10 practical tips to help neurodiverse children transition

back into the classroom.

1. Ease Back Into Routine Early

Start adjusting bedtime and wake-up times a few days before school begins. Use a visual timetable

or picture chart so your child can clearly see what’s coming next.

2. Walk Through the Day Together

Talk about what the school day will look like — getting dressed, lessons, breaktime, lunch. If

possible, visit the school gates or show photos of the classroom and teachers to reduce the

“unknowns.”

3. Pack Comfort Tools

A small fidget toy, chew necklace, or stress ball can act as a calming anchor when emotions run

high. Having something safe and familiar in their bag helps children self-regulate.

4. Practise the Morning Routine

Do a “dress rehearsal” the day before: uniform on, breakfast, bag packed, out the door. This makes

the first day feel less daunting and gives children a sense of control.

5. Keep Communication Clear

Instead of open-ended questions like “How was school?” try focused ones:

• “What game did you play at break?”

• “Who did you sit next to at lunch?”

This makes it easier for children to share.

6. Build in Decompression Time

After school, expect your child to need downtime. A sensory break — whether that’s quiet play, a

calm-down bottle, or gentle movement — helps them reset before homework or evening activities.

7. Use Positive Anchors

Highlight the enjoyable parts of school: art class, favourite lessons, or seeing friends. Focusing on

positives helps balance the uncertainty of new routines.

8. Share Information With Teachers

Teachers want to help but may not know your child’s triggers. Share simple strategies that work at

home (like sensory breaks or communication preferences) so they can support consistency.

9. Prepare for Sensory Needs

Think about the school environment — noise, lights, crowded halls. Noise-reducing headphones,

wobble cushions, or tactile toys can reduce overwhelm and help your child feel more comfortable.

10. Celebrate the Wins (Big or Small)

Getting out the door, walking into class, or simply staying calm through the day are all victories.

Acknowledge and celebrate them — it builds confidence and resilience.

Every Child is Different

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to supporting neurodiverse children. But with

preparation, routine, and the right sensory tools, the back-to-school transition can be smoother for

everyone.

At Sensory Playground, we carefully select sensory toys, fidgets, and calming aids that make a

difference at home, in school, and beyond.