Guidance for Autistic Children during School Years
The Autism Society of North Carolina offers guidance and support for autistic children and their caregivers who are seeking information and resources about autism during school years. If you have any questions at any point of the autism journey, please reach out to one of our knowledgeable Autism Resource Specialists around the state. They offer expert advice for any questions you may have about autism during school years.
School Years To-Do:
1) Connect with ARS – issues during these years can include school advocacy, finding resources, bullying, social skills, etc.
2) Connect with other parents and/or find a support group
3) Find time to take care of your physical and mental health
4) Be involved in the academic career of the child:
- Learn about IEPs.
- Keep good records. Consider creating a binder or digital folder each year that includes a copy of the current IEP, any school or privately conducted evaluations, work samples, and copies of letters related to services outside of school
- Have good communication with school administrators, teachers, and related personnel.
- Attend all IEP and related meetings.
5) Continue to research and implement appropriate therapies depending on the child’s needs.
6) Be thinking about post-high school plans – transition component of IEP, secondary school, employment, housing, guardianship.