Returning to school after a break can be stressful for any child. However, autistic children often face extra challenges – like sensory issues, anxiety, and feeling misunderstood. Recently, UK research has shed light on how widespread and serious these challenges are. By understanding these issues and acting early, parents and schools can support a smoother, more confident transition.
The UK Picture: Anxiety, Absence, and Systemic Challenges
In England, over 51,000 autistic pupils are persistently absent, meaning they miss 10% or more of school time. Alarmingly, four in five secondary-aged children in this group experience mental health issues.
A survey by Ambitious about Autism (late 2024) found that 71% of autistic pupils in mainstream schools experienced “lost learning”, including part-time timetables (38%), persistent absence (35%), or isolation within school (26%).
Moreover, nearly 1.5 million children in England were persistently absent in the 2023–24 school year – many of whom are autistic or have SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities). Despite rising attendance concerns, many parents still struggle to secure needed support, often facing exclusion from mainstream options.
Autistic children also frequently encounter bullying and sensory overload, and struggle in unstructured settings like lunch or between-class transitions. These experiences often go unaddressed, which further fuels anxiety and school avoidance.
Evidence-Backed Strategies That Help
1. Reach Out to the School Early
Contact your child’s school ahead of time to discuss their anxiety about returning. If possible, arrange for your child to meet with their teacher or teaching assistant in a low-pressure environment, such as at home. This can help re-establish a connection and reduce anxiety.
2. Strengthen School–Home Communication
Parents and schools should maintain frequent, open communication. This collaborative approach helps promptly address concerns and fine-tune support.
3. Avocate for Sensible Timetables
In some cases, a reduced or phased timetable can ease the pressure of a full school day, helping children build confidence gradually.
3. School-Based CBT for Anxiety
Research from the UK shows that face-to-face, school-based CBT (such as the Exploring Feelings programme) can reduce anxiety in autistic adolescents aged 11–14. This approach yields measurable improvement in self-, parent-, and teacher-reported anxiety symptoms
4. Use Visual Tools and Social Stories
Visual routines – calendars, timetables, social narratives – help children anticipate transitions and manage the complexity of school life. These tools simplify expectations and support smoother days.
5. Early Routine Re-Establishment
Starting school-like routines (e.g., bedtime or meals) well before term begins improves adjustment. Additionally, hybrid schooling models – such as the UK’s first part-time “hybrid” school – offer one in-person day per week with remote learning otherwise, reducing anxiety while maintaining continuity
6. Flexible Entry and Quiet Spaces
Allowing autistic children to arrive early and use designated quiet zones can help manage sensory overload and emotional distress.
7. Consider a Reduced Timetable
If returning to a full school day is too overwhelming, start with a reduced timetable. It’s better for your child to have a positive experience with shorter school hours than to struggle through an entire day.
8. Create a Visual Timetable
A visual timetable can help reduce anxiety by giving your child a clear understanding of their daily schedule. Include information like subjects, classrooms, and teachers. Adding photos of teachers and using tools like Canva to visualise the timetable can also make it more engaging for your child.
9. Arrange for Quiet Spaces and Times
If your child struggles with the noise and bustle of arriving at school, arrange for them to enter before other students and spend time in a quiet area with a preferred activity. Having access to this quiet space during the day can also help if they become overwhelmed.
10. Be Consistent and Positive
Maintain a consistent routine and celebrate small successes. Avoid punishing your child for bad days, as this can increase their anxiety and make the transition more difficult.
11. Seek Professional Support
Don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help if needed. Organisations like I AM can provide resources and guidance for both you and your child. At the same time, remember that many autistic pupils face multiple barriers such as exclusion, poor attendance, and lost learning. Addressing these challenges early and holistically is vital to prevent long-term disengagement and ensure your child’s needs are fully supported.
12. Explore Breathing Techniques and Mindfulness
Introduce your child to breathing exercises or mindfulness activities that can help them manage stress and anxiety. These practices can teach them to pause and regulate their emotions, leading to better decision-making.
13. Utilise Deep Touch Pressure Therapy
Deep Touch Pressure Therapy, such as weighted blankets or compression garments, can help alleviate sensory processing difficulties and reduce anxiety. This can be particularly helpful during the school day or at bedtime.
14. Build Strong Communication with the School
Establishing a strong, consistent line of communication with your child’s school is essential. Regular updates and a collaborative approach with teachers, the SENCO, and other professionals will ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the best outcome for your child.
15. Leverage Technology
Technology can be a great asset for autistic children. Consider using mobile apps to help them navigate their school day, manage their schedule, and reduce anxiety.
Returning to school after the summer break is a significant transition, especially for autistic children. By taking proactive steps and providing the right support, you can help your child feel more comfortable and confident about going back to school. Remember, you are not alone—there are resources and professionals ready to assist you in making this transition as smooth as possible. At I AM, we understand the unique challenges that come with parenting an autistic child, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
