As summer winds down and a new school year approaches, parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face both excitement and challenges. The start of the school year is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s an opportunity to set the tone, secure the right supports, and ensure your child is set up for success from day one.
By taking a proactive approach, you can help smooth the transition, strengthen collaboration with your child’s educational team, and advocate effectively for their needs. Here’s how to get started.
A Parent’s Guide to Proactive Advocacy for Your Autistic Child:
1. Review and Refresh Your Knowledge
Before the first day of school, take time to review your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan.
Make sure accommodations, goals, and services are still aligned with your child’s current needs.
Brush up on your rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to feel confident in conversations with school staff.
Stay informed about autism-specific learning strategies and share resources with teachers when appropriate.
2. Build Strong Connections with the School Team
The earlier you open lines of communication, the more collaborative your child’s school year will be.
Reach out to your child’s teacher(s), case manager, and support staff before school starts to introduce yourself and share key information about your child’s strengths, challenges, and triggers.
If possible, schedule a meet-and-greet or classroom visit so your child can become familiar with the environment.
Establish preferred communication methods—whether email updates, a communication notebook, or regular meetings—so you can stay informed and involved.
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3. Organize Your Advocacy Tools
A well-prepared parent is a powerful advocate.
Update your advocacy binder with the latest copies of IEPs, progress reports, medical documents, and correspondence with the school.
Keep a section for notes from meetings and phone calls, including dates, names, and action items.
Having everything in one place will save time and help you respond quickly if concerns arise.
4. Be Proactive and Clear About Your Child’s Needs
Don’t wait for problems to appear—anticipate potential challenges and address them early.
Share strategies that work well for your child at home or in therapy so teachers can implement them in the classroom.
If you foresee areas where additional support may be needed, put your requests in writing before the school year begins.
Offer solutions when raising concerns—schools appreciate when parents bring collaborative ideas to the table.
5. Keep Perspective and Stay Engaged
Advocacy isn’t just about fixing issues; it’s about creating the best possible environment for learning and growth.
Celebrate small successes and communicate them with your child’s team.
Stay visible throughout the year—attend events, volunteer when possible, and keep relationships positive.
Remember, you’re not just preparing your child for this year—you’re building skills and systems that will support them for years to come.
Back-to-School Advocacy Checklist for Parents of Children with Autism
Use this checklist to stay organized, proactive, and ready to support your child’s success this school year.
Before School Starts
Review your child’s IEP or 504 Plan
Check that goals, accommodations, and services reflect current needs.
Note any updates or changes you want to request.
Confirm meeting dates
Schedule an IEP review, if needed, before school begins.
Set reminders for parent-teacher conferences and progress reviews.
Introduce your child to their teacher(s)
Share a “Get to Know My Child” sheet highlighting strengths, interests, and challenges.
If possible, arrange a classroom visit or school tour.
Organize Your Advocacy Tools
Update your advocacy binder with:
IEP/504 Plan (latest version)
Medical or therapy reports
Progress notes from last year
Contact list of teachers, case managers, and support staff
Create a communication plan with the school
Decide whether you’ll use email, a communication notebook, or weekly check-ins.
Be Proactive
Share successful strategies from home or therapy sessions.
Flag potential challenges and suggest solutions before they arise.
Put important requests in writing and keep copies for your records.
During the School Year
Track progress toward IEP goals.
Document all meetings and phone calls (date, time, key points).
Celebrate and share your child’s successes with their team.
✅ Tip: Keep this checklist in your binder or on your fridge so you can quickly reference it throughout the year.
Your Partnership Makes the Difference
Starting the school year strong begins with preparation, communication, and unwavering advocacy. By staying informed, organized, and proactive, you’re giving your child the best possible chance to thrive in the classroom and beyond.
At AGBS, we partner with families year-round to support children, adolescents, and young adults with autism, ensuring continuity between home, therapy, and school.
If you would like learn more about how AGBS can help please contact us here , or call 908-913-0443.
