Embracing the Change: Transitioning from Summer to Fall Routines forNeurodivergent Children and Adults

-Written by Dan 0’Sullivan, MA, LCMHCA, Mental Health Counselor at Bareiter Counseling Center

As the golden days of summer wane and the crisp air of fall ushers in a new season, many face the challenge of transitioning from relaxed summer schedules to the structured routines of school and work. For neurodivergent individuals, this shift can be particularly daunting. Understanding the uniquely choppy waters that neurodivergent children and adults might encounter and implementing practical strategies can make for smoother sailing all around.

Understanding the Differences

Neurodivergent children may experience sensory sensitivities. New or long-forgotten sounds, smells, and environments associated with school can be overwhelming and at times dysregulating. Changes in routine can be particularly challenging for children who thrive on predictability. The shift from a relaxed summer schedule to a structured school routine can cause anxiety and resistance. Additionally, socializing in a school environment with familiar and unfamiliar faces can be stressful for neurodivergent children, especially if summer break holds fewer social demands. For neurodivergent adults, returning to a structured work environment after a flexible summer can be difficult. Managing the increased demands of a fall routine, including time management for meetings, organization for projects, and multitasking between work and home demands, can also be tough. Adults, like children, may also struggle with sensory sensitivities, whether it's the noise of a bustling office or the physical demands of commuting.

Practical Strategies for a Smooth Transition

As we all prepare to bid summer goodbye and say hello to another fall season, we can implement practical strategies to support a return to our routines. These strategies will take time to integrate into daily schedules, but consistent practice will aid in making them more commonplace across each part of the day. For neurodivergent children, a gradual transition is essential. Start adjusting bedtimes and morning routines a few weeks before school starts to help children acclimate to their new school schedules. Visual aids, such as calendars and charts, can outline daily routines and activities, providing clear and predictable structure and reducing anxiety. Equip children with sensory tools, such as noise-canceling headphones or fidget toys, to help manage sensory sensitivities in school. If you are able, visit your child’s school before classes start so that they can get acclimated to new classrooms and teachers, as well as the physical layout of the school. Maintain open lines of communication with teachers and school staff to ensure they understand your child’s needs and can provide necessary support. If your child receives services under a 504 Plan or an Individualized Education Plan, make sure that you have any necessary annual meetings scheduled to review goals, academic performance, and therapeutic progress. If you are a parent who is unfamiliar with these services but believes your child could benefit from them, talk to your child’s teachers and administrators. Understood.org is also a great resource for empowering parents and caregivers of neurodivergent children—as well as neurodivergent individuals themselves—with much-needed information about navigating education systems.

For neurodivergent adults, structured planning is crucial. Use planners or digital tools to map out daily tasks and deadlines. If you are someone who uses these tools but gets bogged down by taking on too many tasks, consider applying the Eisenhower Matrix to help prioritize between what is urgent and important. Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps can help with executive functioning differences. If you are not sure how to break up a major project into smaller tasks, try using the Magic ToDo feature in the Goblin Tools AI App to see what a sample workflow could look like when the steps are broken down for you. Personalize your workspace to minimize sensory overload. This might include adjusting lighting, using noise-canceling headphones, or incorporating calming elements. If possible, negotiate flexible working conditions with your employer. This could involve disclosure of specific needs, which could in turn lead to accommodations such as adjusted work hours or telecommuting. Also, consider the role of establishing self-care routines to manage stress and maintain well-being. This could include mindfulness practices, an exercise regimen, or routines for adequate rest. Connect with support networks, whether that means mentors, coaches, and/or support groups outside of work. These relationships can offer encouragement and practical advice in times of need.

Final Thoughts

Transitioning from a summer to a fall routine can pose significant challenges for neurodivergent children and adults. However, with thoughtful preparation and tailored strategies, based on an understanding of the person’s specific needs, this transition can be managed successfully. Remember, every individual's needs and preferences are unique, so it’s important to remain flexible and open to making adjustments as necessary. With patience and understanding, the move from the carefree days of summer to the structured routines of fall can be positive and empowering, rather than defeating. By addressing distinct needs and implementing practical solutions, you can do your part to make this transition encouraging and affirming for yourself and/or your neuro-different loved ones.

References:

(n.d.). 504 Plans. Understood.org. Retrieved August 27, 2024, from https://www.understood.org/en/504-plans

(n.d.). Everyone deserves to be understood. Understood.org. Retrieved August 27, 2024, from https://www.understood.org/

(n.d.). IEPs. Understood.org. Retrieved August 27, 2024, from https://www.understood.org/en/ieps

(n.d.). Magic ToDo: Breaking things down so you don't. Goblin.Tools. Retrieved August 27, 2024, from https://goblin.tools/

Cleveland Clinic (2022, August 10). 5 Back-to-School Sleep Tips for Kids. Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials. Retrieved August 27, 2024,

from https://health.clevelandclinic.org/back-to-school-means-back-to-bedtime

Victorino, R. (2023, September 23). The Eisenhower Matrix: Prioritize Your Time on What Matters Most. Slab. Retrieved August 27, 2024,

from https://slab.com/blog/eisenhower-matrix/