[Source: UC Davis]

Transitions are tough. As many schools make plans to shift from distance learning to in-person instruction, families, students and educators face an adjustment period. That’s especially true for students with autism spectrum disorder, because transitions can be particularly stressful and challenging for them.

 Transitioning back to in-person instruction is an adjustment for educators, families and students.

“The pandemic has been disruptive for children across the board,” said Patricia Schetter, a board-certified behavior analyst who coordinates the Autism Education Initiatives for the Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities at the UC Davis MIND Institute. “Especially for children with autism and their families, so many aspects of their education have been affected, including access to therapies as well as educational and social interactions.”

Schetter noted that the pandemic forced everyone to learn new routines and new ways of working, learning and recreating. “Now, there will be a new period of learning, because in-person school won’t look like it did a year ago. There will be masks, distancing and hybrid schedules to get used to,” she explained.

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