A new school year brings opportunities for learning, growth and connection. For families of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), autism or mental health conditions, the transition back to school may require additional communication and support.
Parents, caregivers, teachers, counselors and support professionals each play an important role in helping children thrive. By working together, families and schools can create support systems that help students feel understood and supported.
Building Staff Connections
One of the best ways to support your child’s success is to build a positive relationship with their teachers and school staff early in the year. While educators bring expertise in the classroom, parents and caregivers have valuable insight into their child’s unique strengths, challenges and support needs.
Sharing information about your child can help school staff better understand how to support them throughout the year. Consider discussing:
- Your child’s strengths, interests and motivations
- Communication preferences
- Strategies that work well at home
- Sensory sensitivities
- Challenges with transitions or changes in routine
- Supports that help with attention, behavior or emotional regulation
These conversations do not need to happen all at once. Small, ongoing communication can help build trust and create a stronger partnership between home and school. According to the CDC, family engagement plays an important role in student success, making strong communication between families and schools especially valuable throughout the year.
When Additional Support May Help
While many children adjust to new routines over time, some may continue to experience challenges despite support from home and school.
Additional support may be helpful if a child is experiencing:
- Persistent anxiety related to school
- Ongoing behavioral challenges
- Significant changes in mood
- Difficulty participating in daily activities
- Concerns with emotional regulation or coping skills
Seeking support early can help children build skills and confidence while reducing stress.
How Monarch Healthcare Can Help
When challenges arise at school, families do not have to navigate them alone. Monarch Healthcare offers a range of services that can support children and families as they work toward their goals both in and out of the classroom.
Monarch Healthcare’s Tailored Care Management team helps individuals and families coordinate care, connect with resources and navigate supports at school, home and in the community.
Outpatient Therapy and Mental Health Services
Our therapists can work with children and families to address concerns such as anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, behavioral challenges and other mental health needs.
Monarch Healthcare’s community-based services can help children and teens build skills that support greater independence, social connection and success in everyday life.
Whether you need help accessing services, coordinating care or connecting with community resources, Monarch Healthcare is here to support children and families throughout the school year and beyond. Together, we can help build the foundation for a successful year both in and out of the classroom.