A new school year can bring excitement, uncertainty and plenty of questions—especially for families of children and youth with disabilities or healthcare needs. A little planning, early communication and support from the school team can help make the transition smoother. Whether your child is starting elementary school, navigating the teen years or heading to college, these tips can help your family begin the year feeling prepared and connected. 

IEPs and 504 Plans 

The acronym IEP stands for Individualized Education Program, a written document that describes the educational program designed to meet a child’s individual needs. Every child who receives special education must have an IEP. The IEP has two general purposes:

• to set learning goals for your child

• to state the supports and services that the school district will provide for your child.

Other students qualify for a 504 Plan. This plan ensures that a child with a disability identified under the law receives accommodations that will ensure their academic success and access to the learning environment.

Review your child’s IEP or 504 Plan before the school year begins and make sure you understand the services, support and accommodations it includes. Introduce yourself to your child’s teachers and share practical information about what helps your child learn, communicate and feel comfortable in the classroom. 

Don’t wait until there is a problem to begin the conversation. Establishing communication early can help you and your child’s school team work together throughout the year. 

Find out more about IEP and 504 plans

Individualized Healthcare Plans 

Some students may need an Individualized Healthcare Plan, or IHP, to address medical needs during the school day.

If your child takes medication at school or needs health-related support, contact the school nurse before classes begin. Requirements vary, and the school may need authorization or documentation from your child’s healthcare provider. 

For example, a student who takes a long-acting ADHD medication in the morning may also need a booster dose before lunch. The parent or guardian may need to deliver it directly to the school and complete the required documentation. Planning ahead can help prevent delays once school begins. 

Find out more about healthcare plans

Age-Related School Tips

Elementary School: Get to know your school’s counselors and social workers. They may lead small groups (with parent or caregiver consent) that help students navigate experiences such as a death in the family, divorce, grief, bullying, anger or emotional regulation. They can also be valuable members of your child’s support team throughout the school year. 

Middle and High School: Students begin gaining more independence during middle and high school, with new choices involving clubs, activities, friendships and other experiences. That growing independence is important, but it can sometimes leave parents and caregivers feeling out of the loop. 

Create regular opportunities to talk about schedules, transportation, expectations and activities at school. These conversations do not always need to feel formal — a car ride, meal or quick check-in can help you stay connected while allowing your student to take more ownership. 

Download Our Middle School Tip Sheet 

College: At the college level, students take the lead in requesting accommodations and advocating for the support they need. Keep in mind that the K–12 IEP does not carry over to college. Students must disclose their disability and connect with the college’s accessibility or disability resource office (the name of the office varies by institution). 

Documentation requirements also vary, so students should contact the office early to learn what is needed. Colleges still offer accommodations and support, but accessing them requires the student to begin the process. 

More information: Transition to Adulthood

Managing Anxiety 

Fidgets and sensory tools can help some students manage anxiety, but it is also important to identify a trusted adult your child can turn to when they need additional support. That person may be a teacher, counselor, school nurse or another staff member with whom your child feels comfortable. 

One parent shared that their student places a red folder on the desk when their anxiety reaches a level where they need a break. This quietly signals to the teacher that the student needs to follow their agreed-upon plan—without having to explain what is happening in front of the class or draw attention from other students. 

Talk with your child’s teacher and school administrators ahead of time if you would like to create a similar system. Together, determine what the signal will be, where your child may go and how they will return to the classroom when they are ready. 

Open House Nights 

For some students, open houses and meet-the-teacher nights can feel overwhelming. Consider reaching out to your child’s teacher to ask about a one-on-one walk-through instead. A quieter visit can give your child time to explore the classroom, become familiar with the space and begin getting to know the teacher—and it gives the teacher an opportunity to learn more about your child, too. 

Positivity Pointers 

A few tips from a counselor: 

• Practice positive self-talk with your child or young adult. Help them identify the strengths and qualities they can carry with them into the new school year. 

• Create a positive playlist to listen to before school—or during the school day, if permitted. Include a mix of favorite songs and upbeat music. Parent tip: This is great for adults, too! 

• Help your child identify a quiet space they can visit if they need a break during the day. It might be the school nurse’s office, a counselor’s office or another designated space. Coordinate with the school ahead of time so your child and the appropriate staff members understand the plan. 

• Add fidgets or other sensory tools to your child’s bookbag. Check with the teacher about classroom guidelines and how these tools can be used without interfering with learning. 

Family Connection Is Here to Help 

Back-to-school transitions can bring excitement, uncertainty and plenty of questions. If you have a child with a disability or healthcare need, Family Connection of South Carolina can provide information, resources and support from parents who have traveled a similar journey. 

Request support online
Call: 1-800-578-8750 
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