New School Year, New Opportunities: Setting Students Up for Success
August is a time of winding down from summer and planning for fall. For many families, this means preparing for the back-to-school season. We are sharing timeless tips and strategies that can help students and families succeed, whether your child is starting kindergarten or heading off to college as a freshman.
Organization and Goal Setting
- Build a Routine: Begin adjusting sleep schedules, mealtimes, and morning routines in the weeks before school starts. Having a consistent routine can reduce stress and help everyone feel more prepared.
- Stay Organized: Create a space for school supplies, backpacks, assignments, and important papers. Planners, calendars, and digital reminders can help keep track of schedules and deadlines.
- Set Meaningful Goals: Encourage students to think about what they would like to achieve this year, both in and out of the classroom. Setting small, realistic goals can build confidence, encouragement, and a sense of accomplishment.
Studying, Communication, and Time Management
- Practice Good Study Habits: Set aside regular times for homework and studying. Breaking larger assignments into smaller steps and reducing distractions can help students stay focused and manage their time well.
- Keep Communication Open: Regular communication between students, families, teachers, and caregivers helps build strong support systems. Encouraging questions and seeking help early can prevent small concerns from becoming larger challenges.
- Encourage Independence: Teach age-appropriate responsibility, such as packing backpacks, managing assignments, or communicating with teachers. These opportunities help students build confidence, life skills, and speaking up for themselves
Staying Positive All Year Round
- Focus on Progress, Not Perfection: Celebrate effort, improvement, and learning from mistakes. Remember that each student learns differently and at their own pace. Recognizing growth helps build the ability to bounce back from challenges and a positive attitude toward learning.
- Stay Involved: Whether attending school events, checking in about classes, or discussing daily experiences, staying engaged helps students feel supported throughout the year.
- Offer Positive Motivation: During the first few weeks of school, give students enjoyable activities or rewards to anticipate after school or on weekends. When right for their age, share these rewards with the school team so they can offer reminders throughout the day. This approach works well for some students, while others may benefit from immediate encouragement or rewards.
We asked Sheri Weissman, Director Autism Services, if she had any advice for back-to-school: “As parents know what their child’s challenges are at the start of a new school year, thinking about and planning ahead to address addressing those challenges before school starts can make a huge difference in a student’s change back to school.”
Helpful information and tools
As routines change and a new school of l year begins, it’s important to support both learning and well-being. The Coordinating Center offers resources to help students and families move through each stage of their school experience.
- Milestone Checklist: Explore The Coordinating Center’s Milestone Checklist, a guide designed to help children and youth with special health care needs and disabilities navigate important milestones from birth through life after high school. Access the checklist and additional resources here.
