How Can Parents Help Their Children with Autism Manage Their Anxiety Before Starting the School Year?

Starting a new school year can be both an exciting and nerve-wracking chapter of any child and their family’s life. But for children and teenagers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), managing symptoms of autism and anxiety while preparing for the school year can be particularly intense. With the increases in change and new demands each upcoming school year brings, it’s not surprising that many neurodiverse families experience stress and overwhelm around this time.

In fact, many parents find themselves questioning how they can help their children with autism manage their anxiety before starting the school year to improve academic outcomes.

The answer typically lies in utilizing ABA therapy, evidence-based behavioral principles, and parental involvement. This comprehensive approach towards school preparation addresses the distinct needs of children and teens on the spectrum, which can help lessen their anxiety and increase their chances of experiencing a great school year.

This blog by ABA Centers of America will provide caregivers with ABA strategies to help their children with autism get school-ready more easily. We will also explore the connection between autism and anxiety. Finally, we will discuss how managing stress with ABA principles can improve school readiness in many on the ASD spectrum and lead to healthier development overall.

By the end of this blog, we hope parents, caregivers, and autism allies have a much better understanding of how to support children with autism in managing their worries around school and developing a more positive attitude towards attending. So, keep reading to learn more about this vital topic!

Visit us here for more information about ABA Centers of America, which serves the autism community in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Click here to read other blogs about autism, ABA, and the diagnostic process for ASD.

Autism and Its Impacts on School Readiness

Before diving into tips for preparing your child with autism for school, it’s crucial to have a basic understanding of what autism is and how it can impact individuals in a classroom setting.

According to Autism Speaks, autism spectrum disorder is a developmental condition that can impact communication, social interaction, and behavior in those with a diagnosis to varying degrees. Many on the spectrum also struggle to understand social cues and establish peer bonds, which can lead to feelings of anxiety in new environments, including school.

Understanding the Link between Autism and Anxiety

There is a strong correlation between autism and anxiety. In fact, research suggests that up to 40% of children diagnosed with ASD also experience symptoms of anxiety. However, it’s not a core symptom. This additional stress can relate to the difficulties these individuals experience processing sensory information, socializing, and adapting to changes in routine.

However, parents should be aware that anxiety can manifest in different ways for children with autism and may increase during various phases of their lives, like getting ready for a new school year.

Challenges with Autism and Anxiety Before Beginning the School Year

For some with autism, anxiety can exacerbate their struggles in school. The unfamiliar atmosphere, new faces, and transitions can all be potential triggers in ASD that make preparing for the school year more challenging for them than their neurotypical peers. However, by understanding these differences, caregivers can better support their ASD loved ones through potential academic struggles.  

Some individuals with autism who struggle with anxiety symptoms around school time report feeling physical symptoms like headaches and stomachaches. Other individuals express behavioral changes like irritability or social withdrawal.

Other signs anxiety may be increasing before school in loved ones with ASD may include but are not limited to: 

• Difficulty sleeping or increasing fatigue
• Mood swings
• Changes in eating habits
• Increased rigidity and resistance to change

ABA Therapy Support for Autism and Anxiety to Improve School Days

Applied Behavior Analysis, or ABA therapy, is a valuable tool in preparing children with autism for school. ABA therapy enhances and shapes specific ASD behaviors for more productive outcomes and school readiness.

ABA experts, including Board-Certified Behavior Analysis (BCBAs) or Registered Behavior Technicians (RBT), utilize ABA principles to work closely with ASD individuals in developing ABA plans tailored to their unique needs. These plans often include strategies for managing anxiety, improving focus, and enhancing social interactions, all of which are essential for positive school experiences.

Additionally, ABA therapy can help children develop coping mechanisms for dealing with school-related stressors, like requesting a break or appropriately expressing discomfort.

Furthermore, ABA can help children describe their passions, display their talents, and engage with their peers in better ways through role-play and skill acquisition!

ABA Strategies to Improve School Readiness in ASD Children

The following are a few ways caregivers and ABA providers can support school readiness in children on the spectrum. Feel free to ask your child’s ABA team for help implementing these tools outside of ABA sessions to ensure they are suitable for your child’s specific needs and areas requiring support.

1. Create a visual schedule: Visual schedules can reduce anxiety by providing structure and predictability. Use pictures or symbols to outline the daily routine, including drop-off and pick-up times.
2. Visit the school beforehand: Arrange a visit to the school before the first day to familiarize your child with their new surroundings. Meet their teacher and walk through their daily routine.
3. Read books about starting school: Many children’s books can help prepare children for the start of school. Reading these books together can help ease any worries your child may have and establish expectations.
4. Practice school routines at home: Role-playing school activities such as taking turns, raising hands, and following directions can help your child feel more confident in these behaviors when school begins.
5. Develop a calming kit: Put together a bag or box filled with items that help calm and soothe your child, such as fidget toys, stress balls, or sensory-friendly items like noise-canceling headphones. Ensure they are not disruptive to the classroom whenever possible.
6. Encourage social connections: Help your ASD child make friends by organizing playdates or joining after-school ASD-friendly activities. This way, your child has some practice interacting with others who share similar interests.
7. Celebrate small successes: Recognize and celebrate your child’s achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Appreciating every win can boost a child’s self-esteem and motivate them to continue trying new things!
8. Use positive reinforcement: Positive reinforcement, such as motivating rewards, including verbal praise, tokens, or access to something highly preferable, can be a powerful tool in encouraging and reinforcing appropriate behaviors in school settings.
9. Be patient and flexible: Remember that every child is different and may progress at their own pace. Be patient with your child and communicate any concerns with their teacher and ABA provider to find the best solutions.

Effective Communication Between Educators and Caregivers of ASD Individuals

Effective communication between caregivers and the child’s educational team is crucial in managing symptoms in students managing autism and anxiety. Establishing a solid communication channel ensures that everyone working with the ASD child is on the same page and understands the type of support the student needs to feel their best.

Start establishing meaningful communication with your child’s educator by setting up a meeting with their teachers, school counselors, and any other relevant staff members before the school year begins. During this meeting, discuss your child’s specific needs, triggers, and strategies that work. The more helpful details you can provide the school regarding preferences and challenges, the more comprehensive their support can be.

Regular updates and check-ins between caregivers and teachers throughout the school year are also vital, if possible. By encouraging open lines of communication, both caregivers and educators can share observations, concerns, and progress. This collaborative effort helps quickly address any issues that may arise by providing a consistent support system for the child throughout the school year!

Starting A New School Year with Autism!

Starting a new school year can be challenging for children and teenagers with autism. Fortunately, by understanding and addressing autism and anxiety in their loved ones through ABA therapy and other practical support, parents can help set their ASD loved ones up for a positive school year. So, remember to celebrate the progress your child makes and have confidence in their ability to succeed!

With open communication, patience, and support from ABA both at home and in school, every child with autism can thrive academically and socially.

So, let’s get ready for a great school year ahead!

More About School Readiness with ABA Centers of America

ABA Centers of America specializes in providing ABA therapy that supports school readiness and overall development for children with autism. Our team of experienced ABA providers commits to helping your child thrive in various environments, including school.

Our ASD services include:

• In-home ABA hours
• ABA Clinic Services
• Autism Diagnostics
• Parent Training

Please get in touch with us via this online link to learn more about our approach to ABA services, or call (844) 923-4222.

Together, we can make a difference in your child’s educational journey.