The middle school environment is very different from elementary school, the building is usually much larger and there are many more students in that building. So, you think about your elementary students as you are preparing them to transition to middle school. You need to prepare them as early as possible for all the changes that they will be experiencing so they will hopefully have a successful transition as possible.
When preparing students with ASD to transition to middle school, the focus should be placed on organization. Focus should be on teaching these students how to set up their notebook, how to find things and put things into their notebook in a place where they could find them at a later date. It is also extremely helpful to teach them how to use agendas, make sure they can communicate their wants and needs in any way, shape, or form. Even if students with ASD can communicate vocally, make sure their communication is functional and they could do it at any time. Also, it is beneficial for the transitioning student to go over to the middle school building and to take tours. Take them to meet their new teachers, meet office staff, and the cafeteria workers as well, and become familiar with the building.
This Q&A has been taken from “Ask the Expert Series” which are short videos that discuss important topics for parents, educators, community member, and individuals with ASD and can be found on the VCU-RRTC-ACE website: https://vcuautismcenter.org/resources/asktheexpert/
Virginia Commonwealth University’s Autism Center for Education (VCU-RRTC-ACE) is funded by the VA Dept. of Education, contract #881-APE61172-H027A220107. VCU is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution providing access to education and employment without regard to age, race, color, national origin, gender, religion, sexual orientation, veteran’s status, political affiliation, or disability. If special accommodations are needed, please contact Jennifer McDonough at jltodd@vcu.edu