The Back-to-School Reset: Supporting Children After the Holiday Break

The holiday break can be a wonderful time filled with rest, family connection, and special traditions. For many autistic children and their families, it can also mean that routines shift, expectations loosen, and structure changes. When school resumes, that transition back can feel overwhelming.

As occupational therapists, we often hear families wondering: Why is my child having a harder time than usual? How can I support them without adding more stress to our days?

The good news is that with preparation, patience, and a few supportive strategies, this transition can feel more manageable for everyone involved.

Why the Transition Back to School Can Be Challenging

Autistic children often rely on predictability and routine to feel safe and regulated. During holiday breaks, changes may include:

• Later bedtimes and wake-up times

• Less structure during the day

• Increased screen time

• Different sensory environments such as travel, visitors, and noise

• Reduced academic and social demands

While these changes are not negative, the sudden shift back to school routines can place extra demands on a child’s regulation, attention, and coping skills.

Common Challenges Parents May Notice and How to Help

Below are some common challenges families may notice when returning to school, along with practical ways parents can support their child.

1. Increased Anxiety or Big Emotions

What this may look like:

• Heightened emotional responses or behavioural challenges

• Increased clinginess or withdrawal

• Resistance or hesitation around attending school

How parents can help:

• Talk about school ahead of time using clear, simple language

• Use visual schedules or calendars to show what the day will look like

• Acknowledge feelings by saying “It makes sense that this feels hard after a break”

• Keep morning routines calm, predictable, and unhurried when possible

2. Difficulty Re-Establishing Routines

What this may look like:

• Difficulty waking up or settling at bedtime

• Challenges completing morning or evening routines

• Needing more reminders for daily tasks such as getting dressed or packing a bag

How parents can help:

• Gradually reintroduce routines before school starts when possible

• Break routines into small, achievable steps

• Use visual supports such as charts, pictures, or checklists

• Focus on effort and progress rather than perfection

3. Sensory Overload at School

What this may look like:

• Complaints of feeling tired, overwhelmed, or unwell

• Increased sensory seeking or sensory avoidant behaviours

• Emotional fatigue or behavioural challenges after school

How parents can help:

• Build in regulation opportunities before and after school

• Offer calming sensory input such as deep pressure, movement, or quiet spaces

• Communicate with teachers about your child’s sensory needs

• Keep after school expectations low during the first few weeks

4. Social Challenges and Fatigue

What this may look like:

• Difficulty reconnecting with peers

• Increased frustration during group activities

• Avoidance of social situations

How parents can help:

• Practice social situations through play, stories, or role playing

• Use supportive, non-judgmental language

• Allow downtime after school to support emotional regulation

• Remember that social engagement can be exhausting, especially after a break

Supporting the Whole Family Including You

Transitions do not just impact children. Parents and caregivers feel it too. Supporting routines, emotional needs, and school communication can take a lot of energy.

Ways to support yourself include:

• Lowering expectations during the first few weeks back

• Prioritising connection over compliance

• Reaching out for support from therapists, teachers, or trusted community members

• Reminding yourself that behavioural challenges are a form of communication, not a reflection of your parenting

How Occupational Therapy Can Help

Occupational therapists can support children and families during this transition by:

• Developing individualised routines and visual supports

• Addressing sensory processing and regulation needs

• Supporting emotional regulation and coping skills

• Collaborating with schools and caregivers

• Empowering parents with practical, realistic strategies

A Gentle Reminder

Returning to school after a break is a big adjustment. With patience, structure, and compassionate support, families can gradually find their rhythm again.

If you are feeling unsure where to start, connecting with an occupational therapist can be a valuable step. You are not alone in this, and you are doing meaningful work every day.