Back-to-School Tips for Parents of Children With Special Needs

Back-to-school time can be exciting, but also stressful and challenging, especially if your child has special needs or a disability. And with the ongoing pandemic, there are even more obstacles to overcome. However, it is possible to have a successful school year full of learning and growth and a good school/home partnership is key. 

Well-Child Checkups

If your child isn’t feeling their best physically, it can affect their classroom performance. Make sure your child is up to date on their well-child checkups and don’t hesitate to make an appointment with their doctor if you have any new concerns about their health. It can be difficult, balancing a busy school schedule and health care appointments and services, so make sure you are utilizing all the benefits your insurance company has to offer. Community First Health Plans offers qualifying Members care coordination services, service coordinators, and more to help facilitate health care between multiple providers to help ensure nothing falls through the cracks. 

Get Ahead of the Curve

Check in with your child’s team, case manager, guidance counselor, and therapy team as early as possible. Don’t assume that everything described in your child’s IEP or 504 is in automatically in place. Remember, teachers and administrators have many of children to think about and plan for. Double check on agreed upon accommodations and supports and do your best to address any issues right away.

Meet the Teacher

Get to know your child’s teacher, school staff, and therapy team. Ask teachers about their daily routines and expectations and begin mirroring them at home. Share with them some basic information about your child that will make the transition easier for both the teacher and your child. Most importantly, let them know that you’re an eager participant in your child’s learning experience and that you’re available to talk, listen, and consider new options. Find out the best way to connect and communicate with them, as well.

Communication Checklist

Create a simple, communication checklist to send in your child’s folder or binder each day with straightforward questions including, “Adam ate his lunch today (Y/N),” “Avery earned praise for good behaviors in _______,” and “William had trouble with _________.” The responses you receive can help give you an indication of how your child is doing on a day-to-day basis and open up lines of communication with your child at home.

Extracurriculars and School Events

If your child has special needs, they may not always remember special announcements or opportunities available to them outside the classroom. Take it upon yourself to get in the know – follow your child’s school and different departments (i.e., Counseling, SPED, Library, etc.) on social media and check for updates and announcements. Sign up for email lists and pick up fliers and brochures. If you have questions about a certain program, club, or activity and if they can accommodate your child’s special needs, don’t hesitate to ask. Non-academic programs are a wonderful way for children to connect with others and explore their strengths outside the classroom.

Remember, no one knows your child better than you. You are their best advocate, cheerleader, and biggest support. For more information about how Community First Health Plans can help make your child’s school year a healthy one and provide needed supports and services, visit CommunityFirstHealthPlans.com.