If you have an autistic child who won’t go into school, don’t panic you are not alone. We have prepared the below guide explaining why this may be happening and what you can try.

Why may it be happening?

Sensory Overload; Schools can be overwhelming for a child with autism due to the stimulation of lights, noise, and social interactions.

This sensory overload can cause discomfort and anxiety, making it difficult for the child to focus on learning.

Social Anxiety; Children with autism may struggle with social interactions and have difficulty making friends. This can lead to feelings of isolation and anxiety, making school a frightening and uncomfortable place.

Learning challenges; Children with autism may have difficulty with academics, leading to frustration and disappointment. This can make school a stressful and overwhelming experience, leading the child to avoid going.

Lack of routine; Children with autism often thrive on routine and structure. However, school can be unpredictable, with changes to schedules, assignments, and teachers. This unpredictability can cause anxiety and stress for the child, leading them to resist going to school.

Lack of support; Children with autism often need extra support in the classroom to succeed. Without proper support, the child may struggle with academics and social interactions, leading to a negative experience at school.

What you can do

Work with the school; Work with the child’s teacher and school to create a supportive and accommodating learning environment.

This may include providing a quiet space for the child to retreat to when they are feeling overwhelmed, or ensuring that the child has access to necessary accommodations, such as extra time on tests.

Another possibility would be for your child to start slightly later so that they avoid the congestion of the regular start time.

Create a routine; Children with autism often thrive on routine and structure.

Help the child create a consistent routine for going to school, including a set schedule for waking up, eating breakfast, and traveling to school.

Gradual exposure; Gradually expose the child to the school environment before the first day of school. This can include visiting the school, meeting the teacher, and participating in familiar activities in the school setting.

Provide social skills training; Children with autism may struggle with social interactions. Provide social skills training to help the child understand appropriate behaviors and ways to interact with others in a school setting.

Recognise success; Recognise and celebrate the child’s successes, no matter how small. This can help to build the child’s confidence and make them feel more comfortable in the school environment.

Summary

We hope that has given you a little more understanding as to why you’re autistic child won’t go into school without difficulty.

Helping an autistic child feel more comfortable going to school requires a collaborative effort between the child, the family, and the school.

By working together, it is possible to create a supportive and accommodating learning environment that helps the child succeed and thrive.