Ready or not... Back to school!

Back to School with Courage and Hope

Dear friends,

As we approach the back-to-school season, I want to take a moment to acknowledge something that weighs heavily on many of our hearts: the fear that our kids may face bullying or exclusion.

If you've ever sent your kid off to school with a silent prayer in your heart, wondering if they’ll be accepted, understood, or protected—you are not alone.

But today, I want to offer hope, not fear. I want to remind you that while there may be kids who misunderstand or mistreat, there are also those rare, beautiful souls— kids who see others, who care, and who act. Sometimes, those kids become quiet heroes in our children’s lives.

Let me share a recent experience that reminded me of this truth.

Last Sunday, I was at church, expecting to hear the usual messages of faith. The speakers are not trained speakers—they were just fellow members of our congregation. One of them, a sweet twelve-year-old boy, stood up at the pulpit. He introduced himself and said something that made me look up and truly listen:

“I want to be like my cousin and other people who follow Jesus. I made a list of how I can follow Jesus.”

He went on to give a beautiful talk, but what moved me most was a story he shared about something that happened at his school.

He had seen a classmate with special needs being bullied. At first, he didn’t know what to do. But then he turned to a friend—another young Christian—and together, they found the courage to talk to the boy who was doing the bullying. Incredibly, the bully was actually one of their own friends. After their conversation, the boy agreed to stop.

This twelve-year-old didn’t look away. He didn’t stay silent. He stood up. That kind of courage is rare, especially at such a young age. His story gave me hope—not just for my own loved ones, but for yours too.

We worry so much about how our kids will be treated at school, at church, etc. Will someone be kind? Will someone have their back? This story reminded me that sometimes, yes—they will.

So how can we prepare our kids for both the challenges and the helpers they may encounter at school?

Here are a few tips that may help as a new school year begins:

• Identify their support system. Who at school knows your child? A teacher, aide, or counselor? church friends? neighbors? Touch base with them.

• Connect with another parent. Ask if their child might be a lunch buddy or keep an eye out for your child. Many people want to help—they just need to be asked.

• Coach your child with real scenarios. What should they do if someone is unkind? Who can they turn to?

• Teach them to speak up—for themselves and others. Even small acts of courage can ripple into big change.

Sometimes, asking for help feels humbling—but it also opens doors. Your child doesn't need to face school alone.

Back-to-school season can be overwhelming, but you’re not navigating it in isolation. We see you. We’re cheering you on. And we believe that kindness, bravery, and compassion still show up in unexpected places—sometimes even in the heart of a 12-year-old boy with a list.

☀️ Squeeze in One More Summer Adventure!

Only a few more weeks before school begins! Can you fit in one more outing? One more staycation? One more fun day with your child before backpacks and routines take over?

Take a moment to explore what’s happening in your area—many communities host sensory-friendly or inclusive events this time of year. It’s a great opportunity to make one last summer memory!

One event that truly caught my attention is what the city of New Jersey is doing—and I love it! They’re hosting a fantastic Autism Beach Bash, and it sounds like such a joyful, inclusive celebration.

Even if you’re not in the area, this might be something to keep in mind for future planning, or to inspire similar events in your community!

🏖️ Autism Beach Bash – New Jersey

• When: September 7, 2025

• Where: 14th Avenue Beach, Belmar, NJ

• Hosted by: Autism Family Services of New Jersey

More info: autismfamilyservicesnj.org
(Check website for registration and updates)

✏️ Back-to-School Tools & Resources for Autism Families

🎒 Social Prep Tools:

• Role-Playing Scripts – Practice social scenarios like how to ask to sit with someone at lunch or what to say when someone is unkind.

• Visual Schedules – Help your child understand the daily routine and reduce anxiety. Try apps like Choiceworks or Time Timer.

• Safety Plan Card – Create a small, laminated card for your child with important contact info and calming strategies.

🧑‍🏫 For Teachers and Staff:

• Consider sending a “Student Snapshot Sheet” to your child’s teacher at the beginning of the year. Include:

  • Strengths

  • Triggers

  • Calming techniques

  • Communication tips

  • What brings them joy!

🤝 Advocacy Tip:

• Build an “ally team” at school. This could include a peer buddy, a caring staff member, and an involved parent. Share your concerns early and build trust before issues arise.

📚 Books to Read with Your Child:

• “All My Stripes: A Story for Children with Autism” by Shaina Rudolph & Danielle Royer. A heartwarming story that helps children embrace their uniqueness. https://amzn.to/46xAw6f

   

• “The Invisible Boy” by Trudy Ludwig
   Beautifully illustrates the power of inclusion and kindness in the classroom. https://amzn.to/4o7mD50

• “My Brother Charlie” by Holly Robinson Peete
   A sibling’s view of living with autism, full of empathy and love. https://amzn.to/4lADziB

  

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