4th September 2024 • My Family Our Needs
The beginning of a new school year is a time that not many children look forward to after six weeks of summer fun. However, for neurodivergent children and teens, this time is even less looked forward to as it can be a particularly challenging one.
Moving from the freedom of the summer holidays to the structured school environment can exacerbate underlying challenges they may be facing.
Sarah Gallacher, Clinical Director of Purple House Clinic Edinburgh, discusses the unique experiences neurodivergent pupils face and offers strategies to help support their wellbeing and encourage academic success.
Sarah says that returning to school can be harder for neurodivergent children when significant changes occur, such as changing schools. Even things that occur every year like moving up to the next year group, changing classes and classrooms, among others, can be challenging for neurodivergent pupils, making the transition from summer freedom to structured class time even more difficult.
Look for patterns in behaviour
She suggests looking for patterns in your child’s behaviour – both positive and negative. For example, if your child is happier going to school some days rather than others it may be worth investigating what is happening on those days. Once you know what is occurring on those days, you can identify the triggers and help develop strategies to make the tougher days a little easier.
Open communication
Keeping open communication with the staff at your child’s school is very important. When you share insights into your child’s strengths, weaknesses, triggers and challenges, the staff will be able to better understand and support your child. It is equally important to listen to the teachers and other staff members so you can see their perspective on your child’s behaviour and any concerns they may have.
By having both perspectives, you can identify potential factors, like being overwhelmed or masking for too long, that may be having a negative effect on your child during the school day. Once identified, accommodations, such as movement breaks or decompression time, can be put in place to improve the wellbeing and behaviour of your child both at home and school.
Learning outside the classroom
School days are not the best days for everyone. For many young people, they reach for the stars after school when they have more autonomy, can follow their own interests, develop skills they are passionate about and most importantly build the life they want to live. Learning happens throughout life; it certainly doesn’t stop at the age of 18. Encouraging your child’s curiosity, to use their strengths and to follow their interests are the best ways to help them recognise that they do have the capability to learn, even if it doesn’t fit into the academic way of doing so.
You are your child’s safe place
The most important thing Sarah wants parents of neurodivergent children and teens to remember is that you are their safe place and this is why you receive all the emotions – positive and negative. It’s hard to not take it personally, but remember emotions come in tides and are continually changing. Use peaceful times for engagement and fun. Navigating neurodiversity can be a daunting task for any parent or caregiver. The most important thing is that you create a supportive environment filled with patience, understanding and communication. This will help neurodivergent children and teens thrive.
If you are seeking additional support or expert guidance on neurodiversity, Purple House Clinic Edinburgh offers specialised neurodiversity assessments and further support. Remember, you are not alone in this journey and seeking assistance is a sign of strength and commitment to your child’s wellbeing.
For more information about PHC Edinburgh, visit their website or call 0131 5630868