Navigating Back to School Tips

As the new school year progresses, the blend of excitement and anxiety can be heightened for students with disabilities and their families. Transitioning back to school involves a mix of preparation, advocacy, and support. Here’s a comprehensive guide with essential tips to ensure a smooth and successful back-to-school experience for students with disabilities.

1. Know Your Rights

Understanding your rights is the foundation of a successful school experience.  In Canada, students with disabilities are protected under various laws and policies, including the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and provincial human rights codes. Additionally, the Ontario Human Rights Commission, for example, provides guidance on ensuring accessible education. Familiarize yourself with these laws to understand how they apply to your situation. Knowing your rights will help you advocate effectively for the support your child needs.

Tip: Consult with local advocacy groups like the Canadian Disability Alliance to get detailed information on your rights and available resources. 

2. Communicate with School Staff

Open and early communication with teachers, administrators, and counselors is crucial. Schedule meetings before the school year begins to discuss your child’s needs and any required accommodations. Clear communication ensures that everyone involved is aware of your child’s unique challenges and how best to support them throughout the year.

Tip: Use a written document to summarize the key points of your meeting, including agreed-upon accommodations and action steps. This helps ensure clarity and accountability.

3. Organize Your Supplies and Environment

Preparing your learning environment to accommodate your needs can reduce stress and improve focus. Ensure that materials are easy to access and that you have any necessary tools or technology in place. For instance, students with visual impairments may require large-print books or assistive technology. Setting these up before school starts helps create a supportive learning space.

Tip: Collaborate with your child’s teachers to make sure the classroom setup is accessible and meets their needs. This could involve adjustments like a more accessible desk arrangement or specific assistive devices.

4. Develop a Routine

A consistent daily routine helps manage time and energy effectively. Establish a schedule that includes time for schoolwork, breaks, and self-care. If medication or specific health protocols are required, integrate these into the routine as well. A well-structured day can provide stability and ease the transition back to school.

Tip: Use visual aids like calendars or planners to help your child follow their routine. This can also be a helpful tool for teachers to understand and support your child’s schedule.

5. Utilize Assistive Technology

Assistive technology can significantly enhance learning experiences. Tools such as text-to-speech software, adaptive keyboards, and other specialized devices can make academic tasks more accessible. Collaborate with your school's technology specialist to identify and learn how to use the best tools for your needs.

Tip: Request a trial period for any new assistive technology to ensure it’s a good fit before making a long-term commitment.

6. Seek Support from Peers and Mentors

Connecting with peers who share similar experiences can offer valuable support. Consider joining school clubs or groups focused on disability advocacy or student support. Additionally, mentors such as teachers, counselors, or older students can provide guidance and encouragement.

Tip: Look for online communities or local support groups where you can share experiences and gain insights from others in similar situations.

7. Practice Self-Advocacy

Developing self-advocacy skills is key to navigating school with a disability. Learn how to clearly and confidently articulate your needs and preferences. Practice discussing accommodations and adjustments and remember that it’s okay to ask for help. Self-advocacy empowers you to take control of your educational experience.

Tip: Role-play conversations with your child to help them practice self-advocacy skills in a supportive environment.

8. Prepare for Emergencies

Having an emergency plan in place is essential. Whether the emergencies involve health issues or other urgent situations, ensure that your teachers and school nurse are familiar with any specific protocols you may need. Sharing your emergency plan ahead of time helps everyone respond effectively if a situation arises.

Tip: Create a detailed emergency contact list and ensure that all relevant school personnel have access to it.

9. Stay Informed About Resources

Many schools and communities offer resources for students with disabilities, such as tutoring, counseling, and specialized educational programs. Stay informed about these resources and utilize them to address any challenges you may face. Knowing what’s available can enhance your learning experience and provide additional support.

Tip: Regularly check in with the school’s special education coordinator to stay updated on new resources and services

10. Attend school events

Take advantage of Open House, Back-to-School Night, and parent-teacher conferences to help you and your child get a feel for the school and meet the teachers, other staff, students, and families. Share the positives about working with your child, and let the teacher know about changes, events, or IEP concerns that should be considered for children in special education.

Tip: Prepare a brief introduction about your child’s needs and accommodations to share with teachers and staff during these events.

11. Prioritize Mental Health



Managing a disability can be demanding, so it’s crucial to prioritize your mental health. Incorporate activities that help you relax and de-stress into your routine. If needed, seek support from mental health professionals or school counselors to address any emotional or psychological challenges.

Tip: Encourage open conversations about mental health within the family to normalize seeking help and reduce stigma.

12. Celebrate Your Achievements

Recognizing and celebrating your successes, no matter how small, can boost your confidence and motivation. Keep track of your progress and give yourself credit for your efforts. Celebrations and positive reinforcement encourage continued growth and perseverance.

Tip: Establish a reward system for reaching goals to maintain motivation and celebrate milestones.

13. Build a Support Network

Surround yourself and your child with a supportive community. Connecting with other families who have similar experiences can provide valuable insights, resources, and encouragement. Explore local support groups and special education networks to find additional support and guidance.

Tip: Engage with online forums or social media groups to expand your support network and share resources with a wider community.

Returning to school with a disability involves thoughtful preparation and support. By understanding your rights, communicating effectively, utilizing resources, and prioritizing mental health, you can create a positive and successful school experience. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are many tools and people available to help you achieve your goals.

We hope these tips help make this school year a positive and successful one for your family. If you found this blog useful, please share it with others who might benefit from these insights. We’d also love to hear about your experiences and strategies for a smooth back-to-school transition with a disability. Send us your stories and—your experiences might be exactly what another family needs!