Fall brings a lot of changes. The weather is getting cooler. You may have new schedules or school routines. Sometimes in the fall, your child has more appointments or different activities. What feels like a small change to one child might be a very big adjustment for another. For children with disabilities and special health care needs, these changes might need extra planning.  

As we head into fall, here are a couple of things to think about:

• • • Help your child know what to expect
      Talk about changes before they happen. Some children do well with visual reminders. A visual schedule, social story or calendar might be something to try. Simply talking about what to expect can be helpful.

• • • Give transitions time
      If your child needs extra time to adjust, build that into your plans and be flexible. Even routines that are the same each year can take time to get used to in a new season. What worked last fall may not work the same way this year—and that’s okay.

Cooler Temperatures and Changing Weather

In Wisconsin, the weather can change quickly. Think about what your child may need to stay comfortable and safe. Changing or adjusting layers of clothes, mobility equipment, medications, or other supplies are things to think about. Talk about any changes with your child, too.

You might say, “The leaves are loud when they blow. What can we bring to help if it feels too noisy?” or “It’s getting cooler. Do you want to show me your favorite jacket or sweatshirt?”

If your child uses pictures, AAC, gestures, or another way to communicate, use those tools to help them understand the change and share what they need. This can help them understand what to expect, prepare and have a say about what happens next.

Keep in mind that some children may also be more sensitive to changes in temperature, wind or the amount of sunlight.

Changes in Routine and Sensory Needs

Back-to-school routines, bus rides, crowded hallways, new classrooms or teachers, and different schedules may all change how your child feels and responds. Pay attention to changes in sleep, behavior, communication, eating, and emotions. This can be a way of telling us that something feels different or overwhelming.

Fall Health

Fall is also a great time to check in with your child’s health care team about getting the flu vaccine and other preventive care. Going back to school means exposure to more germs. For children with disabilities or special health care needs, an illness may be harder to manage. Talk with your child’s doctor about new ways to stay healthy and what you can do if your child does get sick.

Remember: You Know Your Child Best

Some children may jump right into a new routine with excitement, while others need more time and support. There is no one right way to prepare. Stay flexible and adjust along the way. Do what works for your child. If something isn’t working, that doesn’t mean you have done anything wrong. You can simply try something else. Preparing, staying flexible, and listening to your child’s cues can go a long way and help make fall transitions smoother for the whole family.

For more back-to-school tips and information, review this article from our partners Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS): Back to School for Parents and Families | Wisconsin Department of Health Services