Friday’s Back-to-School Tip: Visit the classroom. Making a presentation to classmates helps build positive connections. Present your child as the “star” and start with a fun, educational story to spark discussion. More tips at:

As technology grows it’s vital parents teach kids safe internet use. Social stories help teens, especially those with unique learning needs, understand internet safety rules and why they matter. Teaching these skills helps keep kids safe online. Learn more:

The start of the new school year is exciting for most kids. But it also prompts a spike in anxiety: Even kids who are usually pretty easy-going get butterflies, and kids prone to anxiety get clingier and more nervous than usual.

Dude, Where’s My Transition Plan? helps students understand transition and plan their future. It includes checklists, quizzes, and note sections. Download your copy here:. English: Spanish:

Thursday’s Back-to-School Tip: Request a meeting. Call your child’s teacher to share insights and start building a positive relationship. Review your child’s IEP and “What Works” portfolio to be an active team member. More tips at:

Wednesday’s Back-to-School Tip: Create a “What .Works” portfolio. It helps smooth transitions by sharing positive descriptions of your child’s strengths and needs. A helpful tool for parents and teachers. More tips at:

Lots of kids have trouble winding down at night from time to time. But bedtime can be a nightly struggle for some families. Why is it so hard for some kids to relax and drift off to sleep?.

Building a diabetes partnership with your child’s school is key for their health and safety. Talk with teachers, support staff, peers, and especially the school nurse. It may feel like a hassle at first, but it gets easier every year. Learn more:

Learning and practicing life skills is an important step for students as they plan for transitioning into adulthood. The Life Skills Checklist can help transition age students, their families, and IEP Team track independent living/life skills.

As parents, recognizing when kids struggle and supporting them through tough emotions or mental health crises is vital. It helps them build coping skills, self-advocacy, and self-kindness—and know when to ask for help. Learn more:

A new school year is busy for all, but parents of children with special needs may feel extra stress. Having a plan can ease worries. Here are tips to help set up your child and you for a successful year. Learn more:

Many think dyslexia only affects language, but about 50% also struggle with math. This article explains the skills needed for math success and how dyslexia impacts those skills. Read more:

Tuesday’s Back-to-School Tip: Review your child’s IEP. Before school starts, review the IEP and discuss goals with your child. Make sure all teachers have a copy and understand it. Active parent and teacher involvement is key to success. More tips at:

Teaching kids good hygiene—brushing teeth, washing, grooming—is a daily challenge. Kids with autism or special needs may struggle more due to sensory sensitivities or behavior challenges, making these tasks harder to learn and keep up. Learn more:

The first day of school feels like a fresh start, new supplies, classes, teachers, hopes, and for some, new challenges. Turning things around isn’t easy, but it’s possible. The rewards of effort last well beyond the school year. Learn more:

Monday’s Back-to-School Tip: Build alliances. If challenges come up, it helps to have a network of support. Now’s the time to connect with teachers, support staff, parents, and students who can help your child thrive. More tips at:

Back-to-school season can be stressful, especially for kids who learn and think differently. New schools, new teachers, and social worries can cause anxiety. If your child is feeling nervous, these tips can help ease the transition. Learn more:

Check out the NAMI Mental Health College Guide for Students and Educators. Discover resources, practices, collaboration strategies for mental health and wellness in college.

Middle and high school students suddenly face more complex schedules, tougher academic work, and an expanding network of friends. How can we help them manage it all?.

Saturday’s Back-to-School Tip: Help kids manage commitments. Kids often get over-involved in clubs, sports, and activities, leaving little time for homework and rest. Help them find balance so they don’t get overwhelmed. More tips at: