28/01/2026
Moving from high school to university is an exciting new chapter, but it can also feel overwhelming for autistic students. Here are practical ways to make this transition smoother:
🏫 Get to Know the Campus:
▪️Take part in orientation events and go on campus tours to familiarise your child with key locations.
▪️Find quiet study spaces and areas for sensory breaks.
📚 Set Up Academic Support:
▪️Contact the university’s disability support team early to arrange accommodations, such as extended exam times or note-taking assistance.
▪️Encourage the use of organisational tools like calendars or apps to manage assignments and schedules.
💬 Practice Self-Advocacy Skills:
▪️Role-play how to communicate needs to professors, tutors, or support staff.
▪️Build their confidence to request adjustments or help when required.
🏠 Prepare for Independent Living:
▪️Practice daily living skills like cooking, doing laundry, or managing finances.
▪️Set up a simple, consistent routine to help manage time and energy.
👥 Encourage Social Connection:
▪️Explore interest-based clubs or societies where they can meet like-minded peers.
▪️If they prefer, practice strategies for making and maintaining friendships.
🧘 Focus on Wellbeing:
▪️Teach relaxation techniques, such as mindfulness or deep breathing, for handling stress.
▪️Encourage balance by including downtime for hobbies and sensory regulation.
🤝 Offer a Safety Net:
▪️Stay connected, but allow them space to grow. Regular check-ins can provide reassurance.
▪️Help them build a local support network, including friends, mentors, and therapists.
Transitions are about progress, not perfection. Celebrate their courage and milestones along the way! Need tailored strategies for this next stage? Reach out to WunderKind Consulting Jervis Bay—we’re here to support your neurodivergent family every step of the way.