Preparing for school entry in autism

Why starting school is special

The guideline reproduced the view of the British source guideline (NICE): transitions from nursery to school, to secondary school and into training or university are particularly burdensome and should be planned ahead, including taking precautions for periods of increased strain (for example start of school, change of school, puberty, birth of a sibling). ^{[1, Ch. C.10.2.1]}

A systematic review reproduced by the guideline (20 studies, children aged 3 to 8 years at school start) found that children with autism were less emotionally ready for school, showed more externalising behaviour and had more problems with self-regulation. Because of the small number of papers and the large differences, the guideline judged the results to be “to be viewed critically”. ^{[1, Ch. C.10.2.2]} That does not mean every child is like this.

What can help with preparation

The studies in the guideline described as helpful: advance visits, conversations with the teacher and individual solutions. ^{[1, Ch. C.10.2.2]} From the nursery practice that the guideline named for early-years settings, it can be derived what can also help at school: clear instructions for action, a visualised daily structure, small-step guidance, where needed a low-stimulus separate room and hearing protection. ^{[1, Rec. 109]} More on this: Autism in nursery.

What to clarify with the school

According to the guideline, teachers should receive training or comprehensive information about autism. ^{[1, Rec. 109]} You can therefore raise before school starts:

• Who at the school is the contact person, and how does communication work?
• What support has your child needed so far (for example structure, a retreat room, hearing protection)?
• Should a written support plan or reasonable adjustments be agreed? The guideline recommended formulating them in writing with professionals, implementing them in a binding way and reviewing them regularly. ^{[1, Rec. 109]}
• Is a school support worker needed? On this: School support workers in everyday school life.

These are conversation suggestions from the editorial team; the guideline did not name them as a checklist in this form.

What else you should know

• Legal matters: Registration, school readiness, deferral and support needs are state law. An example (Bavaria) is in Special educational needs and support plan; on reasonable adjustments: Reasonable adjustments at school.
• Not covered: school entry examination, school medical findings and deadlines. No sources were read on this.
• Local advice can be found via Finding advice.

Sources and literature

1. DGKJP, DGPPN et al. Autismus-Spektrum-Störungen im Kindes-, Jugend- und Erwachsenenalter. Teil 2: Therapie. S3-Leitlinie, AWMF-Reg.-Nr. 028-047, Stand Text 02.05.2021 (Kap. C.10.2.1–C.10.2.2, Empf. 109). – Guideline (in German); expired on 23 March 2026 (see no. 2)
2. DGKJP. Aktuelle Leitlinien (Eintrag 028-047: „Gültig bis 23.03.2026“). https://www.dgkjp.de/wissen/aktuelle-leitlinien/ – Professional society (website in German)