Starting school is a big milestone for every child, but for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Global Developmental Delay (GDD), or other learning disabilities, it can feel overwhelming.
At First Bridge Education, we believe that carefully planned transitions help children build confidence, feel secure, and thrive in their new setting. Here are our expert tips to help parents prepare their child for this important change.
Why School Transitions Can Be More Challenging for Children with Additional Needs
Children with autism, GDD, and other learning disabilities often find transitions harder because:
- Changes in routine can cause anxiety – predictability helps them feel safe.
- New social expectations can feel overwhelming – new teachers, classmates, and rules can be hard to understand.
- Sensory differences make busy classrooms challenging – bright lights or noisy environments can lead to overload.
- Communication difficulties make it harder to ask for help or explain worries.
Understanding these challenges is the first step to putting the right support in place.
When to Start Planning the Transition
Start Early – Ideally a Term in Advance
The earlier you begin, the smoother the transition will be. Parents should:
- Arrange a transition meeting with the nursery and school SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator).
- Share important reports (EHCP, therapy notes, or ABA plans) so staff understand your child’s needs.
- Agree on a personalised plan that includes classroom visits, staff training, and ways to keep communication open.
How to Prepare Your Child for School
1. Make the School Familiar
Gradual exposure helps children feel more comfortable:
- Start with short visits to the classroom, increasing time gradually.
- Ask for photos or short videos of the classroom and teacher to look at together.
- Create a simple “social story” or photo book showing the classroom, playground, and teacher.
2. Build Predictability at Home
Routines reduce anxiety:
- Practise the new morning routine: getting dressed, packing the bag, and travelling to school.
- Use a visual timetable with pictures or symbols to mirror the school day.
- Count down to the first school day with a calendar or sticker chart.
3. Support Emotional Readiness
Emotional skills are just as important as academic ones:
- Practise calming techniques (deep breaths, sensory toys, or “quiet time”).
- Encourage small steps toward independence (putting on shoes, asking for help).
- Celebrate small successes to keep school linked with positive feelings.
How Schools Can Help
Reasonable Adjustments to Ask For
A strong partnership with the school makes all the difference. Ask the SENCO about:
- A one-page profile – sharing what your child enjoys, what might upset them, and what calms them.
- Gradual starts – shorter days or flexible start times during the first weeks.
- Quiet spaces – a calm area for breaks if your child feels overwhelmed.
- Regular updates – diaries, weekly emails, or quick check-ins to monitor progress.
How Long Does It Take Children to Settle In?
Transitions can take weeks or even months for some children. Signs your child may need more support include:
- More frequent meltdowns or avoidance behaviours.
- Changes in eating or sleeping patterns.
- Regression in skills they previously managed well.
Patience and consistency are key; small steps forward are still progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prepare my autistic child for school?
Start planning early, practise routines at home, and request SENCO-led transition support. Visual stories and calming strategies can help.
What if my child struggles to settle?
Speak to the SENCO straight away. Extra visits, flexible starts, or tailored support can ease the transition.
Is transition harder for children with GDD than autism?
Both groups face challenges, but children with GDD may need additional support with fine motor or physical skills.
Should I consider a SEN-specific school?
This depends on your child’s individual needs. Discuss options with the SENCO, educational psychologist, or therapy team.
Next Steps – We Can Help
At First Bridge Education, our BCBAs, therapists, and early years specialists work closely with families to make transitions as smooth as possible.
If you are looking for personalised support to help your child move confidently from nursery to school, speak to our team about how we can help.