Getting ready for a new school year involves more than buying backpacks, notebooks, uniforms and school suppliesespecially when you are the parent or caregiver of an autistic child.

In this episode of Emunah, host Dr. Tamara Henry welcomes back educator and autism specialist Dr. Terita Gusby for an important conversation about autism, back-to-school preparation, parent advocacy, special education and preparing autistic children for life beyond the classroom.

Their message to parents is clear: Parents are their childrens first teachersand their most consistent advocates.

Dr. Gusby explains practical steps families can take before the first day of school, including reviewing evaluations and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), establishing routines, communicating with teachers, addressing sensory and nutritional needs, and helping children develop self-regulation skills.

But preparation shouldnt stop with the new school year. Parents also need to ask a much bigger question: What are we doing now to prepare our children for life after high school?

What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that can affect how a person communicates, interacts socially, processes sensory information and experiences the world.

It is called a spectrum because autism does not look the same in every person. Abilities, characteristics and support needs can vary significantly. Some autistic people live independently, attend college and build careers, while others may require substantial lifelong support.

Characteristics may include:

         Differences in social communication difficulty interpreting social cues, communicating in expected ways or navigating social interactions.

         Repetitive behaviors and focused interests a strong preference for routines, repetitive movements or highly focused interests.

         Sensory differences heightened or reduced sensitivity to sounds, lights, textures, smells, tastes or other sensory experiences.

Autism is a form of neurodivergence, not an infection or contagious disease. Understanding a childs individual strengths, challenges and support needs can help parents make better educational decisions and advocate more effectively.

Key Topics in This Episode

Parents Are Their Childrens First Teachers

Schools play an essential role, but parents cannot turn over complete responsibility for their childs education to teachers, administrators or specialists.

Dr. Gusby discusses why parents need to understand their childs diagnosis, evaluations, educational goals and support needsand why effective education requires a partnership between parents, teachers and other professionals.

The conversation also addresses challenges facing special education classrooms, including teacher shortages, staffing changes and the possibility that some students may encounter educators or substitutes without extensive special education experience.

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