Welcoming new child and family to our school

Hi everyone,

I have been a teacher for several years and teach at a mainstream primary school. 

My new class in September will include a child with autism.

Thankfully a statement is already in place for 20hrs support and we have a lovely and experienced TA in place.

I was hoping for some advice on how best to start off my relationship with this child and their family. More focusing on the family really as I know each child with asd is unique and their specific needs, abilities and interests vary.

I know that sending your child to school for the first time is a scary experience in itself. What would you have liked your child's teacher to do, ask or offer?

Is there anything I should avoid? (I'm thinking of the type of 'well-meaning' things which actually cause upset.)  

I also have the opportunity to reorganise my classroom completely in September as we are having building work during August. If anyone has any suggestions for spaces I should create in the classroom or things I should avoid that would be great.

My main concern is that this child should have a safe and happy space to explore and grow for their first year in school and that their parents should feel welcomed and supported by our school.

 

Parents
  • Everything intense world said is great advice, esp the sensitivity issue to being told off, my son is the same.

    They can be vey naive, so watch out for them.  My son would never tell a teacher if he was in need of anything, thirsty, being bullied etc so keep an extra eye on things.

    You do sound like you are going to be a very good teacher, i wish my son had you.  I have just taken him out of school and am going to home school instead. 

    Good luck

    Puffin

     

Reply
  • Everything intense world said is great advice, esp the sensitivity issue to being told off, my son is the same.

    They can be vey naive, so watch out for them.  My son would never tell a teacher if he was in need of anything, thirsty, being bullied etc so keep an extra eye on things.

    You do sound like you are going to be a very good teacher, i wish my son had you.  I have just taken him out of school and am going to home school instead. 

    Good luck

    Puffin

     

Children
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