The First Day Back At School 🎒

Today is the first day back at school for many children and young people across Ayrshire.

For families of neurodivergent young people, this day often brings a mix of emotions: hope, worry, pride, and sometimes exhaustion before the school bell even rings.

It’s important to remember that every young person’s experience of going back to school is different.

Some may run through the gates with excitement, others may hold back with worry, and some may not manage through the door at all. All of these experiences are valid.

If This Morning Felt Tough 💪

Maybe there were tears, refusals, or even a battle just to get dressed.

You are not alone.

The first day back can stir up big feelings, and that doesn’t mean things won’t settle in time. It’s normal for transitions to feel bumpy, and it’s okay if today didn’t go how you hoped.

Tomorrow is a fresh start.

If It Went Smoothly 🥳

Celebrate it!

Even if your young person only managed part of the routine, or if they walked into class without looking back - that’s an achievement!

These “small wins” matter and deserve recognition.

Remember the Bigger Picture 📸

The first day is just that - the first.

Settling back into routines, classrooms, and expectations can take time.

Some children need weeks, even months, to feel fully comfortable again.

Progress may not be linear, there will be good days and harder ones, but each step forward is still progress.

Be Kind to Yourself 🫶

Parents and carers often carry their own anxieties today, wondering how their child is coping, worrying about phone calls from school, or feeling guilty if things didn’t go smoothly.

Please know you are doing your best, and your efforts make a difference, even if it doesn’t always feel like it in the moment.

After-School Matters Too 🌙

When your child comes home later, expect tiredness, big emotions, or even meltdowns.

The school day takes a lot out of them, especially after a long break.

It can help to keep the evening calm and low-pressure: offer their favourite snack, a chance to decompress, and time for comfort before talking about how the day went.

Sometimes rest speaks louder than words.

Keep an eye out on our page as later on this week we will be making a post about navigating "social hangovers".

What Matters Most ❤️

Whether your child made it through the school gates, managed a half-day, or needed to stay home.

The fact remains: they are trying, and so are you.

That in itself is something to be proud of.

To every parent and carer supporting a neurodivergent young person today: you’ve got this.

The school year is a journey, not a sprint.

However today looked for your family, it is only the beginning.

And remember, NEST is here to walk alongside you every step of the way.