Back-to-School Safety Tips for Autistic Kids: A Parent’s Guide

Back-to-school season can feel exciting, overwhelming, and everything in between—especially for families of autistic children. New classrooms, new faces, and changing routines can be hard for our kids, and keeping them safe while helping them feel comfortable is always top of mind for parents.

The good news is, a little preparation can make a big difference. In this post, I’m sharing simple, practical tips to help your autistic child feel secure and confident during the back-to-school transition. These strategies are based on what’s worked for our family and other families I’ve talked to over the years.

1. Prepare Your Child for the New Environment

Transitions are easier when kids know what to expect. A few simple steps can make a world of difference:

• Show photos or videos of the school: If you can, visit the classroom ahead of time or ask the teacher for pictures.

• Practice the route: Drive or walk to school a few times before the first day.

• Use social stories: Create a story about what your child will see and do at school, including teachers, the bus, and lunch.

• Talk through the schedule: A visual schedule or simple “first/then” cards can help your child feel more in control.

2. Create an Individualized Safety Plan

You know your child best, and sharing that knowledge with school staff is key. A quick, one-page “About Me” sheet can help teachers, aides, and other staff support your child. Include:

• Medical or dietary needs

• Sensory triggers and calming strategies

• Communication preferences (spoken language, AAC, sign language, picture cards)

• Safety concerns, like wandering or elopement risks

Consider asking the school to assign your child a trusted adult they can go to if they feel unsafe or overwhelmed.

3. ID and Emergency Preparedness

Having simple safety tools in place brings peace of mind:

• ID jewelry or tags: A bracelet, necklace, or even a shoe tag with your child’s name, diagnosis, and your phone number.

• Emergency comfort kit: Pack a small pouch with headphones, a favorite fidget, or a picture card to ask for breaks. You may need to get permission from the school for these items, or request an accommodation through your child’s IEP or 504 plan.

• Communication cards: If your child is non-speaking or has difficulty in stressful situations, laminated cards with phrases like “I need help” or “I’m scared” can be lifesavers.

Tip: We include a customizable ID card template in our Free Autism Safety Pack, perfect to clip to a backpack or keep in your child’s pocket.

4. Transportation Safety Tips

Whether your child rides the bus or you’re doing drop-off and pick-up, consistency helps.

• Meet the driver early (if possible): A quick introduction before the first day builds trust.

• Practice boarding and seating: Ask for a consistent seat if that helps your child feel calm.

• Safe hand-offs: Make sure teachers or aides know who is authorized to pick your child up.

5. Build Emotional Safety at School

Safety isn’t just about avoiding danger—it’s also about feeling safe.

• Send calming tools: A weighted lap pad, a soft toy, or a calming card. You may need to get permission from the school for these items, or request an accommodation through your child’s IEP or 504 plan.

• Identify safe spaces: Ask if there’s a sensory room, quiet corner, or nurse’s office your child can use.

• Teach “help” signals: A word, gesture, or card your child can use when they need a break.

6. Partner with the School Team

Your child’s teachers and support staff want your child to succeed. Working together helps everyone feel confident.

• Share visual supports: If your child uses a schedule or communication cards at home, send copies for school.

• Talk about safety drills: Ask how they handle fire drills, lockdowns, and other emergencies, and help your child practice at home.

• Build relationships: A short check-in with staff early in the school year sets the tone for teamwork.

Sending your autistic child back to school can feel stressful, but you’re not alone. By preparing ahead and partnering with teachers, you can create a safer, calmer environment where your child feels supported. Even small change, like meeting the bus driver or packing a calming tool, can make the school day so much easier.