Around 1 in 27 Australian children are diagnosed autistic, and transitions such as starting or changing schools can be harder due to sensory sensitivities, unfamiliar routines and shifting social expectations.
To help families and educators, Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia) has released a practical, evidence-informed checklist for students starting school for the first time or changing schools.
Maryanne Gosling, National Director of Education at Aspect, says starting school is a major milestone for any child, but for autistic students it often brings added stress.
“With thoughtful preparation and the right supports, we can reduce uncertainty, increase predictability and make the experience far more positive for students and their families,” Gosling explains.
The right supports don’t have to be complicated, she shares.
“Simple adjustments, like visual schedules, advance school visits or clear communication, can make a world of difference to a student’s sense of safety, predictability and belonging.”
Aspect’s checklist outlines simple steps for parents, carers and educators that can significantly reduce first-day anxiety.
- Build familiarity early
Visiting the school, exploring classrooms and taking photos or videos allows children to revisit the environment at home and rehearse what the first day might look like. Practising the journey, whether by car, bus, train or walking, also helps reduce uncertainty. - Practice routines gradually
Introducing school uniforms in short bursts, revisiting daily routines such as packing a bag, lining up or sitting on the mat, and using social stories or visual schedules can help prepare children for the structure of a school day. - Share key information with the school
Parents are encouraged to work with their school and the teacher to develop a clear profile of their child, including their strengths, interests, communication style, sensory preferences, learning needs and effective calming strategies. This helps teachers understand how to best support the child from day one and ensures continuity between home and school. - Involve early childhood educators
Preschools and early learning centres can share valuable insights into a child’s social preferences, motivators, sensory supports, routines and regulation strategies. Passing this information to the new school helps ensure a more seamless transition.
Florence Ah Yek is a parent whose child is preparing to start school with Aspect’s support, and says the planning has already made a noticeable difference.
“Putting into action some proven advice has given our child a sense of predictability,” Ah Yek, whose son is due to start at Aspect Macarthur School this year, says.
“Simple things like practicing the school run, trying on the uniform in small steps and looking at photos of the classroom has helped him feel calmer and more ready for what’s ahead.”
This checklist is designed to support families as well as educators who may not have had an autistic student in their class before, Gosling says.
Implementing these approaches, she says, can have a wider reaching and maybe significant impact.
“When schools embrace inclusive practices, they’re not just supporting Autistic students but building environments where every child can thrive,” she says.
“Predictability, empathy and strong home–school collaboration benefits all students, not only those on the autism spectrum.”
Download the checklist here.
