The big transition
Starting school is a huge change — new building, new adults, new noises, new rules, new uniform. For a child with SEND, the load can be enormous. Good preparation reduces overwhelm in week one.
Before the summer
- Meet the SENCO before the end of the summer term. Share what works and what doesn't.
- Share a one-page profile — a single page covering strengths, sensory needs, communication style, calming strategies, and what NOT to do.
- Request extra visits. Most schools will agree to two or three short visits in quiet times.
- Take photos of the classroom, toilets, lunch hall, playground and staff. Use them at home.
Build a social story
A short, personal book using photos and simple sentences:
- "My school is called ____."
- "My teacher is Mrs ____."
- "I hang my coat on a peg with my name."
- "If I feel worried I can ask for my calm card."
Read it every day for two weeks before term.
Practice the routine
- Walk the route to school
- Try on the full uniform — including shoes and PE kit
- Practice opening the lunchbox, water bottle, book bag
- Practice toileting independently if expected
Sensory preparation
- New uniform: wash several times to soften; remove labels
- Trial different sock seams, waistbands and shoe fastenings
- Pack ear defenders if assemblies or the dining hall may be loud
- Agree a "calm item" allowed in the bag (fidget, photo, small soft toy)
Day one
- Arrive early — quiet entry beats a busy gate
- Keep goodbyes short and the same every day
- Hand over to a named adult, not just "the classroom"
- Have a low-key plan after school: snack, downtime, no questions
The first half term
- Expect tiredness, big emotions and possible regression — this is normal
- Build in recovery weekends with minimal demands
- Keep a home–school communication book if helpful
- Check in with the SENCO at week 2 and week 6
Red flags to raise quickly
- School refusal that escalates rather than settles
- New self-harm, hair pulling or sleep disruption
- A child saying they are "stupid" or "bad"
- Behaviour incidents without context being shared
Raise these in writing. Ask for a meeting. You are the expert on your child.