How to Prepare Well for a New School Year

Starting a new school year can be exciting and scary at the same time. We have lots of members beginning new adventures within education this September. This can be a tricky stage of transition as trusted support gets moved about and new routines are put in place. We have lots of events over the summer to keep everyone busy and distracted from September school runs, but we also want to share some tips for the new term ahead.

1. Practise your journey

Do a test run (or two) of your journey to school, particularly if you’re starting somewhere new. This helps everyone to know what to expect and can enable you to iron out any bumps in the road.

If it’s not possible for you to walk or wheel to school, you can apply for transport help through the local council.

2. Try on your school uniform

Avoid stresses on the morning of the first day of school by trying on your uniform or outfit in advance. If the uniform feels wrong or you are struggling to find adapted shoes that fit, chat to the school to see what accommodations can be made.

3. Try to meet up with your classmates in the holidays

Your child will make friends when the term starts, but meeting up with classmates beforehand can help them to visualise some friendly faces when they think about school and September.

4. Get a waterbottle

Make sure your child’s waterbottle is ready to go. Staying hydrated is vital for children with hydrocephalus, so having a waterbottle that they like is helpful in keeping up healthy routines. Practise using it regularly during the summer holidays too.

5. Create a bravery pack

Nerves are normal. Build a bravery pack together to help them remember what they’re capable of.

What to include in a bravery pack:

• Pocket hugs – A small painted stone to keep in their pocket and remind them that they’re loved.
• Memory book – A journal of their past achievements and adventures to remind them how far they’ve already come.
• Worry worm – Knitted or made out of a pipecleaner, worry worms are to remind them that worries are normal and it’s good to share them before they become overwhelming.
• Stickers – To celebrate achievements big and small.

6. Use SHASBAH’s support

We’d love to help you with any admin that comes along with schools and SEN education. We have lots of personal and professional experience with the local schools and authorities.

We can also come in to your school to provide training and advice.

7. Get some rest

The new term will bring plenty of jobs and activities along with it. Make sure you take time together to enjoy the summer break, whatever that looks like for your family. Why not come along to one of our many events and make some great memories with us?