Can you believe we are already buying back to school supplies? Summer is going way to fast! As a parent of special needs children though your “supply and to do lists” for back to school should be different than others. Our kids need more than just rulers and binders. Here is what I recommend you should be doing now to make sure your children have everything they really need for school:

1. In addition to school supplies buy fidgets and other items to help your child. Great ideas here.
2. Schedule their annual doctor’s appointment so you can give school updated records on how your child is doing.
3. Determine what if any medications are needed to be taken in school and get that together for them.
4. Look at your child’s IEP plan from last year and determine if they have any other needs.
5. Schedule a preschool year meeting with the IEP person at your child’s school to make sure the school is ready. Take a look here for more suggestions and what to cover while you are there.
6. If your child will have a locker, you need to check this out for ideas to help them stay organized.
7. Considering purchasing my e-book How to Ace Your Child’s IEP so that you are ready for that first dreaded meeting.
8. Write a letter for the people that interact with your child so they know what to expect. This should tell your child’s story.
9. Decide about transportation for your child. For mine the bus is always a nightmare. Here are some ways to reduce that problem.
10. Start the transition to school gradually and prepare your child for what is coming.

I hope this helps make your child’s transition easier. I would love to know other things you may do!