2026 Back-to-School Resources
Back-to-school is upon us, CACNA1A families. Are you ready? I know I am not! For some, school is starting soon and for others we have a few more weeks to prep. No matter where you are on the journey, the CACNA1A Foundation is ready to help you. We have created a back-to-school checklist with templates that you can use to make the start of the new school year a bit less stressful. The key to a successful school year: Communication! It is never too soon to start reaching out to your school care team. Remember, you are an integral part of the school team; you know your child best.
Our children grow and develop in the summer, and sometimes they regress. Fill in the care team on what has been happening. A few weeks before my daughter heads back, I reach out to her case manager, and we discuss the upcoming school year and what Maddie has been up to over the summer. I review the IEP and any forms that are needed to assist the school care team. I make sure the release to consent form is ready to go, so Maddie's outside providers can fill in school therapy team members about summer accomplishments, goals, and areas that need improvement. Maybe adjustments need to be made in the IEP and that is okay!
Another important part of the back-to-school prep: scheduling a tour and if possible, meet-and-greet with your child's teachers and principal. Allowing our children to see where their classroom(s) will be, where their locker is, and being able to put a face to their teacher(s) name(s) helps ease anxiety. Start talking to your child about school. Are they excited? Are they scared? This will allow you to gauge where they are at. Begin the school year routine a week ahead of time. Earlier bedtimes and wakeups will help our children and their bodies adjust. Practice backpack zippering, lunchbox opening, and review of school supplies. The more comfortable they are with using their items, the more comfortable and empowered they will feel on the first few days of school.
Our children are champions. The more we, as parents, can work together as a team with the school; our children will thrive, learn, and succeed during the 26-27 school year. Happy Back-to-School! Be sure to tag the Foundation in your pictures!
