AsIAm ‘back to school’ learning resource at SuperValu stores
SUPERVALU and AsIAm’s ‘Bridge Back to School’ resource has returned to stores, in collaboration with Mary Immaculate
College.
Covid-19 continues to pose challenges for every household in
Ireland. The loss of structure and routine has been particularly tough for many.
This resource was first launched in July 2020 and helped thousands of families prepare for the return to education after an extended break.
Special schools opened this month at half capacity and special classes have opened again.
The Bridge Back to School resource will help students, teachers, SNAs and parents as they support their children as they go back to school now or later this year.
A booklet will be sent to every primary school in the country and distributed to SuperValu stores. AsIAm worked in collaboration with Professor Emer Ring and colleagues with experience in early learning and care, primary, post-primary and school contexts to develop the resource.
Professor Ring has extensive experience in education, including working with the Department of Education and Skills, as a primary mainstream class teacher and as learning support and resource teacher.
‘Every person around the country has experienced some obstacle to their routine due to the pandemic, however many do not consider how the changes that may seem minor to some, can pose serious stress to others in their community,’ said Professor Ring. ‘The second closure of schools will have impacted those with autism and their families again and it’s important that we support them through this time.’
The resource offers essential guidance for those with high support needs that will find the transition back to school a particular challenge.
CEO of AsIAm Adam Harris said: ‘Not only have the changes in routine and lack of support been a challenge for autistic students but re-establishing routine will be just as challenging.
‘This has been the second closure in a year for students and has been particularly tough for students and their families. During this time where some children will be preparing to return to education the ‘Bridge Back to School’ resource can support teachers, SNAs and family members to help understand, prepare and manage the return to school for young people.’ Topics in the booklet include sensory integration, preparing for the new year, social skills, dealing with worry and anxiety and more.