Written by: Doraida Mendoza, Curriculum and Instruction Specialist - Autism
We understand the vital role you play in supporting your child’s learning and growth at home. Together, we can create a supportive and inclusive environment that empowers your child to reach their full potential. Below are practical tips and strategies to help you support your child at home.
Establish a Routine
Research shows that children with special needs, especially those with ADHD or autism, thrive in predictable routines as it reduces anxiety and improves executive functioning.
Create a consistent schedule for homework, meals, and downtime. Predictable routines help children feel secure and focused.
Include breaks during learning sessions to prevent fatigue and maintain engagement such as setting timers for homework (e.g., 25 minutes of work with a 5-minute break) to maintain focus without burnout.
We recommend using visual schedules, which can include images or icons for non-readers, to reinforce routines.
Adapt the Learning Environment
Designate a quiet, clutter-free space for studying. Noise-canceling headphones or weighted lap pads, can help children who are easily distracted or overstimulated.
Use visual aids like charts, calendars, or color-coded tools to make tasks clear and manageable.
Communicate with Teachers
Stay in regular contact with your child’s teachers to understand classroom goals, accommodations, and strategies that can be reinforced at home which may include requesting regular updates on their child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan goals.
Don’t hesitate to ask for resources or clarification if something isn’t clear.
Support Executive Function Skills
Executive functioning is the brain’s control center that helps with planning, staying organized, managing emotions, and problem-solving. For example, packing a backpack for school uses planning, remembering directions relies on working memory, staying calm after losing shows emotional regulation, and trying a new way to solve a puzzle demonstrates flexible thinking.
Break assignments into smaller, manageable steps to reduce overwhelm.
Use checklists, timers, or reminders to help your child stay organized and focused.
Encourage Independence
Offer guidance and support, but allow your child to solve problems and make decisions independently whenever possible. For example, modeling a skill first, then guiding the child, and eventually allowing them to do it independently.
Give simple choices (e.g., “Would you like to read first or do math?”) to build decision-making skills.
Celebrate successes to build confidence and motivation.
Focus on Strengths
Identify your child’s strengths and incorporate activities they enjoy into their learning. For example, if they enjoy art, use drawing to reinforce lessons.
Use positive reinforcement to acknowledge effort and improvement.
Leverage Assistive Technology
Explore apps, software, and tools designed to support specific learning needs, such as text-to-speech programs or organizational apps.
Your child’s school may have recommendations for technology that aligns with their IEP goals such as built-in accessibility features on devices (text-to-speech or voice commands) for easier use.
Promote Emotional Well-Being
Encourage open communication about challenges and emotions. Let your child know it’s okay to ask for help.
Practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques to reduce stress and anxiety.
Engage in Real-World Learning
Incorporate everyday activities like cooking, shopping, or gardening into learning. These activities can strengthen math, reading, and problem-solving skills.
Use outings or experiences to connect classroom lessons to the real world.
Seek Support
Join parent support groups or connect with local organizations that provide resources and workshops for families of students with disabilities.
Your school’s special education team can guide you to additional resources and strategies.
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