Preparing My Autistic Child for the Transition into Year 1: What We’re Doing to Help
Preparing for Year 1: Easing the Transition Together
That leap from Reception to Year 1 feels like a big one, doesn’t it? One minute they’re building towers out of blocks and playing shop, and the next there’s talk of timetables, learning goals, and “sitting still.” It can all feel a bit overwhelming—even more so when your little one has additional needs and thrives on routine and familiarity.
As a mum, I’m hopeful. I really am. But I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little nervous too. New routines, a new classroom, possibly a new teacher—it’s a lot of change all at once. And that’s why I wanted to share what we’re doing to prepare, in case it helps another family out there feeling the same mix of emotions. You’re not alone, and with a bit of planning (and a lot of kindness—to ourselves and our kids), we can absolutely get through it.
What Makes Year 1 a Big Transition
Reception is all about play—it’s soft, familiar, full of movement and imagination. Year 1, on the other hand, introduces more structure. Think more time at desks, new classroom expectations, and a shift in the style of learning. It might even mean a new teacher with a different approach. For children who find change tricky or have sensory sensitivities, it’s not just a new school year—it’s a whole new world to get used to.
How We’re Starting to Prepare at Home
We’re keeping things light and gentle, starting with simple tools that help Billie feel safe and included in the process:
We’ve got a visual calendar where we’re counting down the days together—just like we did for her birthday and our recent holiday.
We’ve started weaving Year 1 into our chats—what it might be like, who might be there, and what could stay the same.
Speaking of which, we talk a lot about the familiar bits—same school, some of the same friends, staff she knows and trusts.
Pretend play is helping too! We’ve been playing 'school' at home—she loves being the teacher (even the dog has to join in!).
Visual Supports and Tools We’re Planning to Use
Visuals are our best friends when it comes to easing anxiety and prepping for change. Here’s what we’re planning to use:
A personalised “Welcome to Year 1” social story—just a few pages that show Billie what to expect in pictures and simple words.
Now/Next cards to help with transitions at home (e.g. “Now: breakfast / Next: school drop-off”).
A visual daily routine so the school mornings feel a bit more predictable.
An emotion chart for after-school check-ins—because some days just need space to feel and decompress.
What We’re Planning With the School
I’ve reached out to school to start building that bridge now, rather than later. Support services like Daisy Chain have really emphasised how helpful it can be to start the transition process up to six months in advance—it can make such a difference. Here’s what we’re hoping to put in place:
Regular classroom visits—this could look like dropping off some books or pencils (even if it’s all just part of the "act").
A gentle classroom visit so Billie can have a look around before the big day—on her own or with a friend—so she can really explore the space.
A photo of her new teacher and classroom—something we can look at over the summer. Although for us, this might not be possible as the teachers often change each year.
We’re updating her one-page profile to share what helps, what doesn’t, and what makes her feel safe.
A 1:1 meeting with her new teacher and the SENCO, either just before or shortly after she starts, so they can ask questions and start to get to know Billie properly.
How We’re Preparing Ourselves as Parents
Let’s be honest—it’s not just the kids who go through this transition. We do, too.
I’m reminding myself it’s okay to feel a bit emotional, a bit wobbly about all the change.
We’re planning for calmer evenings during those first few weeks—less rushing, more cuddles.
And I’m being realistic about routines—maybe tea will be a little later, maybe bedtime will shift. That’s okay.
Final Thoughts
Every child is different, and every journey through school will look different too. There’s no perfect way to prepare—just the way that works best for your family. Whether your little one is charging ahead or taking it slow, you’re doing your best. And honestly? That’s what matters most.
Transitions are hard. But you’ve got this—and I’m right there with you.
