Back-to-School Prep Starts Now: What Caregivers Should Be Thinking About in July

Ben Keller • July 10, 2025

The long days of summer may still be in full swing, but July is the perfect time to start easing into back-to-school planning especially for caregivers supporting children with disabilities, developmental differences, or mental health needs.

At Society of Care, we know how much thought and coordination goes into setting children up for success. Whether your child has an IEP, a 504 Plan, or simply needs a little extra routine to thrive, getting a head start can make the fall transition smoother for the whole family.

Why Start Now?

Back-to-school season often brings a rush of forms, appointments, and emotional adjustments. Starting early gives caregivers time to:

  • Revisit school support plans and goals
  • Schedule any necessary medical or therapy check-ins
  • Introduce new routines gradually
  • Communicate with schools ahead of time about changes or concerns
Plus, doing a little now reduces overwhelm later.

5 Key Areas to Focus On in July

1. Review Your Child’s IEP or 504 Plan

Take a moment to read through your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan from last school year. Ask yourself:

  • What supports worked well?
  • What goals still need attention?
  • Are there any services or accommodations that need adjusting?

Make notes now so you're ready for fall meetings or early check-ins with staff.

2. Update Medical and Therapy Appointments

July is a great time to:

  • Refill prescriptions
  • Get physicals or developmental screenings
  • Request updated documentation for school accommodations
  • Coordinate with therapists or specialists who may provide school-based support

These steps are easier to manage before appointment slots fill up in August.

3. Practice Routines and Transitions

Many children benefit from predictability and gradual transitions. Start slowly introducing:

  • Regular sleep and wake times
  • Morning and evening routines
  • Lunchtime or snack routines that will mirror the school day

Even practicing bus rides or walking by the school can help reduce anxiety.

4. Gather Supplies and Comfort Tools

Beyond the basics like pencils and backpacks, consider what items help your child feel safe and ready to learn:

  • Noise-canceling headphones
  • Fidget tools
  • Visual schedules or picture icons
  • Extra clothes or calming items for their cubby

Start sourcing these now so you’re not rushing last minute.

5. Connect with Your School Team

If you know there will be staffing changes or if your child is moving to a new school or classroom, consider reaching out to introduce yourselves. Even a short email in late July can begin building a positive connection and ensure your child’s needs are on the radar early.

Small Steps, Big Confidence

Back-to-school prep doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a few thoughtful steps now, caregivers can reduce stress, support smoother transitions, and set the tone for a more successful school year; for both your child and yourself.

At Society of Care, we’re here to walk alongside you in every season. You know your child best, and the work you do behind the scenes makes a lasting difference.

Looking for more simple, supportive tools for the loved ones in your care? Enjoy these additional resources and explore our blog for ideas that help you nurture connection, one moment at a time. Or, Join our mailing list where we share more resources that accompany our blog posts.

  • Slide title

    A nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families of children who learn and think differently. Their site is full of articles, tools, and community support for navigating school, behavior, and caregiving challenges.

    Read More
  • Slide title

    A nationally recognized parent center offering resources, training, and advocacy support for families of children with disabilities. PACER provides tools to help families engage with schools, access services, and support their child’s education.

    Read More

Join Our Mailing List

A little girl is sitting on a wooden bench in a park.
By Ben Keller July 3, 2025
Each July, communities across the country recognize Disability Pride Month. A time to honor the strength, identity, and contributions of people with disabilities. For caregivers and families, it's also a meaningful opportunity to listen, learn, and celebrate the rich diversity within the disability community.
Two men and a little girl are standing around a table in a kitchen.
By Ben Keller June 26, 2025
Summer break doesn’t have to mean a break from learning. In fact, some of the best learning moments happen outside the classroom, on a walk, in the grocery store, or while helping with dinner.
An elderly woman and a little girl are looking out of a window.
By Ben Keller June 20, 2025
When the sun is shining and school is out, life can feel both joyful and overwhelming. Especially for the parents and grandparents who hold everything together behind the scenes. Summer brings schedule changes, extra responsibilities, and a lot of emotional juggling.
A woman is sitting at a table using a laptop computer.
By Ben Keller June 12, 2025
Summer break is often seen as a time of rest and freedom, but for many caregivers, it can be one of the busiest seasons of the year. With school out, routines disrupted, and demands multiplying, caregivers often put their own well-being on the back burner. At Society of Care, we want to offer a gentle reminder: you matter too.
A little girl is selling lemonade from a lemonade stand.
By Ben Keller June 5, 2025
Summer is a season full of sunshine, freedom, and fresh opportunities to connect not just with each other, but with our communities. At Society of Care, we believe small acts of kindness can ripple outward in powerful ways. That’s why this season is a perfect time to get the whole family involved in simple service projects that show care, build empathy, and strengthen bonds.
A young boy is standing at a desk in a classroom.
By Ben Keller May 29, 2025
The last few weeks of the school year are often packed with excitement, celebrations, and big transitions. But for many kids, it can also be a time of emotional overload. They might be dealing with goodbyes, schedule changes, tired minds, or even uncertainty about summer plans.
A group of children are playing with balls on the grass.
By Ben Keller May 22, 2025
Big feelings are a part of growing up. From excitement and joy to frustration and sadness, kids feel it all. But understanding and expressing emotions takes practice, and not every child has the words to explain what’s going on inside.
A parent and child holding hands.
By Ben Keller May 12, 2025
When life gets busy (and it always does), routines can feel like one more thing to keep track of. But the truth is, small, feel-good routines can make a big difference—especially for kids who crave consistency and connection.
A little girl is sitting on a slide at a playground.
By Ben Keller May 12, 2025
As the weather warms up and the days get longer, it’s the perfect time to head outdoors. But nature isn’t just a beautiful backdrop—it can be a powerful tool for helping kids feel calm, connected, and resilient.
By societyofcare November 22, 2024
With the holidays in full swing, mental health awareness takes on new nuances, which brings both joy and unique emotional challenges. Here’s a look at some trending mental health topics […] The post Navigating Wellness During the Holidays and Beyond appeared first on .
More Posts