Top Occupational Therapy Tips for a Smooth Back-to-School Week
- claire2876
- Jul 23
- 3 min read
The first week back at school can be exciting—and overwhelming—for many children and families. As occupational therapists, we understand that transitions like this can bring sensory, emotional, and organizational challenges. Whether your child is in preschool or primary school, here are our top OT tips to help support a smooth and successful return to the classroom.
1. Establish a Consistent Routine
Routine is essential for reducing anxiety and promoting independence. In the week leading up to school, start waking your child at the school-day time, following morning and afternoon routines, and practicing lunchbox and bag packing. Use visual schedules or checklists to support predictability, especially for neurodivergent children.
2. Support Sensory Regulation
Many children find school environments overstimulating. Offer sensory supports like:
Deep pressure input (e.g., firm hugs or weighted toys)
Movement breaks in the morning (jumping on a trampoline, animal walks)
Fidget tools or chewable jewellery for self-regulation
Discuss sensory strategies with your child’s teacher to ensure classroom support is available where needed.
3. Practice Independence in Self-Care
OTs love to encourage independence! The back-to-school season is a great time to work on:
Dressing skills (e.g., zips, buttons, shoes)
Toileting independence and hygiene
Opening containers and lunchboxes
Packing and carrying a school bag
Give your child opportunities to problem-solve these tasks at home to boost confidence.
4. Ease Social Anxiety
Returning to school after a break can be socially daunting. Support your child by:
Rehearsing greetings and conversations through role-play
Arranging playdates with school friends before the term begins
Using social stories or visuals to explain school routines
These strategies help children feel more confident navigating peer interactions.
5. Focus on Functional Fine Motor Skills
Before diving back into handwriting or craft tasks, help your child warm up those small muscles with fun activities like:
Playdough rolling and pinching
Tweezers games or Lego building
Drawing with crayons on vertical surfaces
Scissor skills practice with zig-zag or curved lines
These playful tasks strengthen hand muscles and improve dexterity for classroom tasks.
6. Manage Energy and Transitions
Back-to-school fatigue is real. Encourage quiet, screen-free wind-down routines after school and keep after-school activities light for the first few weeks. Use timers and countdowns to support transitions between activities and promote emotional regulation.
7. Collaborate with Your Therapy Team
If your child already receives OT support, now is a great time to touch base with your therapist. Discuss school-based goals, update plans, and share strategies with your child’s teacher. OT involvement early in the term helps set the tone for the rest of the year.
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