Supporting Children With Additional Needs Starting Primary School

(Illustration 155631998 © Ramu Chinnasamy | Dreamstime.com)

 Starting primary school is a significant milestone in a child's life, and it can be both exciting and overwhelming for parents and children alike. 

For children with additional needs, transitioning to primary school can be even more challenging, with new environments, routines, and people to get used to. 

As an early intervention specialist, I want to share some tips on how parents and teachers can support children with additional needs in starting primary school. 

The Consequences of Not Planning for the Transition

Transitioning from preschool to primary school can be challenging for all children. 

It is important to recognise that not only do children transitioning to mainstream classes require support, but children with additional needs moving to a special class also need assistance making this transition smooth.

If the transition is not planned and prepared for, it can negatively affect a child's development and well-being. Children may feel anxious, fearful, and uncertain about the change, resulting in refusing to go to the new class, uncooperative behaviour, and even a regression in their development.

Not planning for transitions can have a long-lasting impact on a child's ability to adapt to change. It may make every subsequent transition more challenging as they become fearful of change and new environments. 

Planning and preparing for the transition to primary school is crucial to ensure a successful start for children with additional needs.

The Benefits of Planning for the Transition

Planning for the transition to primary school can significantly benefit children with additional needs. Children who clearly understand what to expect can be more confident and excited to start school. 

Planning can also help teachers and support staff provide the necessary support from the beginning. By preparing the school environment to meet the child's needs, we can promote engagement and good behaviours from the start, leading to better learning outcomes.

 Tips for Planning for the Transition to Primary School

Here are some tips for planning for the transition to primary school:

Visit the school and meet the teacher and support staff

Visiting the school before the first day can help children become familiar with the environment and reduce anxiety. Meeting the teacher and support staff can also help children feel more comfortable and reassured.

Create a visual schedule or social story

Creating a visual schedule or social story can help children understand what to expect during the school day and reduce uncertainty. Visual supports and social stories can benefit children with additional needs who may struggle with transitions and new routines.

Prepare the school environment

Preparing the school environment to meet the child's needs can promote engagement and good behaviour. 

Preschool teachers and parents should provide the new school with all relevant information about the child, so adjustments in the classroom can be made before the child starts in September. 

For example, if a child has sensory sensitivities, creating a designated quiet space for the child to use when feeling overwhelmed may be helpful. Or, if a child has a language delay, it may be beneficial to create visual supports and have them ready for September. 

Establish clear communication channels.

Establishing clear communication channels between the child, the teacher, and the special needs assistant is crucial for supporting children with additional needs. This may involve using alternative forms of communication, such as visual supports or manual hand systems, such as Lámh. It is also essential to establish a consistent routine and clear expectations for the child to help them understand what is expected of them.

Support your child or student in getting ready for school.

It's important to support children in becoming as independent as possible before their first day in primary school.

While each child develops at their own pace, encouraging and nurturing their skills for starting big school can go a long way in helping them feel prepared. 

Some essential skills for school include: 

• Following simple instructions
• Managing their lunch box and coat
• Using the toilet independently
• Being able to sit and work on tabletop activities

Parents and early childhood educators can work together to support children as they prepare for September. By collaborating and sharing ideas, we can create a supportive and nurturing environment for children to develop the necessary skills for primary school.

In my free webinar, "Getting Ready for School," I'll share a "preparation for school" checklist. This checklist can help you monitor your child's progress and identify which skills they may need extra support with in preparation for next September. 

If you would like more information on how to support children with additional needs starting school next September, join my FREE webinar on Getting Ready for School.

This webinar is for teachers, parents, SNAs and early years educators.

I will discuss practical strategies for planning and preparing for the transition to primary school. I will also answer questions and provide additional resources to support you and your child.

Starting primary school is exciting, but it can be challenging for children with additional needs. Planning for the transition to primary school is essential to ensure a successful start for these children. 

I look forward to seeing you at the webinar and helping you support your child's journey to primary school. Let's work together to make this transition as smooth and positive as possible!