Back to School Must-Haves – NEST Team Picks for 2025 🎒

The new school year is just around the corner, and we know that for many neurodivergent individuals, the transition back to school can bring a mix of emotions: excitement, anxiety, and everything in between.

At NEST, we believe that having the right tools and supports in place can make a big difference. So, we asked our team to share their top back-to-school must-haves, something practical, sensory-friendly, or emotionally supportive that they recommend.

Carla's Pick: A Communication Passport or 'All About Me' Card 🛂

A communication passport, or “All About Me” card, can be a brilliant tool for starting the new school year. With so many changes, like new teachers and routines, this simple one-page summary helps reduce stress by sharing key information at a glance. It outlines a young person’s strengths, support needs, and what helps them thrive, so they don’t have to explain everything themselves.

David’s Pick: Noise-Reducing Headphones 🎧

For those who are sensitive to noise, the school environment can be overwhelming, especially in busy corridors or noisy classrooms. A pair of over-ear or in-ear, noise-reducing headphones (they don’t need to be full noise-cancelling) can provide a sense of calm and control. Even if they’re only used during transitions or break times, they can make a big difference to comfort and focus throughout the day.

Clare's Pick: Pencil Grips & Coloured Overlays 🖍️

Small tools like pencil grips and coloured overlays can be incredibly helpful for learners who find writing physically uncomfortable or who experience visual processing difficulties. These simple supports are easy to keep in a pencil case and can make tasks like handwriting or reading feel more manageable and less stressful.

Celine's Pick: A Favourite Snack or Drink in the Bag 🧃

Packing a favourite snack or drink in a school bag might seem small, but it can offer real comfort throughout the day. Having something familiar to look forward to, especially if lunchtime is overwhelming or unpredictable, can provide a sense of reassurance, a quick emotional reset, or just a moment of calm when it’s needed most.

Alison's Pick: A Familiar Comfort Item 🧸

Including something small and familiar in a school bag, like a squishy toy, a keyring from home, or even a scented tissue, can make a big emotional difference. These transitional objects act as a quiet source of comfort, helping with emotional regulation and offering a reassuring connection to home throughout the day.

Final Thoughts 📝

Back to school doesn’t have to mean back to stress. With the right support, big or small, neurodivergent children and young people can feel more confident, comfortable, and ready to learn.

Do you have a favourite must-have for the school year? Let us know in the comments or tag us on social media!