The countdown to a new school year is on. Many children are excited at the prospect of school starting, but others feel a little more uncertain. School brings a complete change in routine, unfamiliar faces, and a new set of expectations. This can create a lot of anxiety in children with autism who thrive on predictability. The transition from summer to school days can go a little more smoothly with thoughtful preparation, though. A Little Conversation Goes A Long Way Instead

Anyone who has ever been around a child knows that they tend to have very big, ever-changing feelings. Emotions are a part of life for all of us, but for children with autism those feelings can feel amplified and more intense than they do for others. That intensity can quickly become overwhelming, especially when they don’t quite understand why they are feeling that way. Overwhelm can lead to meltdowns and challenging moments for both the child and their family or caregiver.