Back to School Sensory Toolkit

OT-designed tools to ease the transition into school routines (without meltdowns or mystery behavior)

You know that back-to-school season technically starts in September…

…but your child’s sensory system starts bracing for it in August.

Suddenly everything feels off:
The seams in their socks are too much.
Their lunchbox comes back untouched.
They hold it together all day—then crash the moment they get home.

This is the nervous system saying, “That was a lot.”
Let’s give it some support.

Let's make school feel safe and doable again.

Because regulation isn’t about being “ready”—it’s about being supported.
And this toolkit gives you just that.

Buy the Toolkit Now 

Instant download. No stress. All support.

Meet the Toolkit

The Back to School Sensory Prep Toolkit is a printable pack of OT-created strategies to help your child ease into school with more regulation, more calm, and more confidence.

Designed for preschool and early elementary kids (and their grown-ups), this toolkit makes sensory prep feel simple and doable—even if you’re short on time, energy, or patience.

What’s Inside:

✔️ 14-Day Sensory Warm-Up Plan
Build your child’s tolerance for routines, clothing, and school transitions—step by step.

✔️ Sensory School Prep Checklist
Preview and practice clothing, backpack, food, and routines before the first day.

✔️ After-School Reset Menu
Quick, calming ideas to help your child regulate after a long sensory-heavy day.

✔️ Teacher Communication Template
A respectful, fill-in-the-blank note to share your child’s sensory needs with their new teacher—without oversharing or overwhelming.

Perfect for You If:

  • Your child is sensitive to textures, noise, routine changes, or transitions

  • You’ve dealt with the after-school crash

  • You want simple, OT-backed routines to build regulation without overhauling your whole day

  • You like to prep, not panic

Instant Download

You’ll get a printable PDF (8.5" x 11") you can use right away.
Print it out.
Stick it on the fridge.
Refer back when things get wobbly.

Price

$9
(A small investment for fewer tears, smoother mornings, and calmer evenings.)

The content shared on Growing in Play is for educational and informational purposes only. While I’m a licensed pediatric occupational therapist, any products on Growing in Play are not a substitute for individualized medical or therapeutic advice. Nothing here constitutes the provision of occupational therapy services or creates a client-therapist relationship.

If you have concerns about your child’s development, behavior, or sensory needs, please consult your pediatrician or a qualified healthcare professional in your area. Every child is unique — and getting personalized support is always a good idea.