Transition to school

The following questions are suggestions from the Raising Children Network website and might be useful if you’re thinking about primary schools:

• Will you and your child feel welcome at the school?
• Does the school offer a ‘transition into school’ program?
• What options are available for before and after school care?
• What do other parents you know think about the different schools in your area? What are their experiences?
• What approach does the school take to behaviour management?

Some additional things to consider regarding your child’s Spina Bifida needs may also include:

Wheelchair and mobility access

Many of the newer schools are wheelchair accessible. Ideally you will be looking for a level school ground. Make sure you look specifically at the playground areas. Will your child be included and independent in the playground? Is the play area on site to the school? Is it flat or sloping? Can your child access the library and the canteen?

Toilet and bathroom access

Will your child be able to manage their personal care needs comfortably in this school environment? What is the access to the bathroom like?

Classroom access

Is your child able to independently access the classrooms? What support is available in the classroom to assist your child’s learning needs? Most state schools have a 20 student to 1 teacher ratio. Independent and religious schools may be different so be sure to ask.

Transport to school

How is your child going to get to school? Is it possible to access public transport? Is there a safe pick up and drop off area they will be able to physically access?

Your child may already be at preschool and some of the logistics regarding their care needs and spina bifida needs have already been negotiated. Getting your child ready to attend primary school includes the usual organisation of:

• Uniforms - Discuss the specifics with the school you choose.
• Shoes - Consider reading the Foot care fact sheet before buying school shoes.
• Bags - What does your child need to be able to carry their school equipment in?
• Class room supplies - Discuss the specifics with the school you choose.

In addition there is also the consideration of:

Toilet routines

• Are there accessible toilets that are private for your child and they will feel comfortable in?
• Will there be staff available to be trained or provide assistance for your child as needed? 
• Can the school provide a safe and secure area for your child to keep any personal care supplies away from other children?

Equipment required  

• Is the school willing and open to provide the recommended equipment by the spina bifida team’s Physiotherapy, Occupational therapist or Nurse, to make your child’s time in school safer and easier?

Communicating with the school

Open communication with your chosen school is recommended. Some tips to consider:

• Let the school know you are keen to be involved.
• Advise them what your preferred management strategies are for siblings (They are not the parents, and should be allowed to have their own place at school)
• Be part of your child’s individual education planning process.
• Supply the school with relevant documentation such as assessments, reports, etc.
• Share any particularly useful resources you use with school staff and advise them of the spina bifida Service. The team are available to educate and support school staff also.

The spina bifida service at your child’s hospital is available to visit potential schools (pre, primary and high) if you want assistance. The team can advise you on the specific school needs of your child.

The spina bifida team are a resource for schools if they need additional support and information about spina bifida. The school can make direct contact.

Peer support may be something you wish to explore for your child. Meeting another person living with spina bifida who is older can help reduce fears of the unknown. You may like to talk to other parents who have a child living with spina bifida also. The team can match you with a suitable peer if you are interested