Supporting Children with RSD at School
8 min read
School can be challenging for children with RSD. From playground dynamics to receiving marks on work, there are many potential triggers. This guide helps parents and teachers work together to support these children.
Common School Triggers
Being corrected in class
Can feel like public humiliation, may refuse to participate.
Not being picked for teams
Feels like definitive proof nobody likes them.
Friend dynamics shifting
Seeing friends play with others triggers abandonment fears.
Marked work returned
Any correction feels like failure, regardless of overall grade.
Not being invited to parties
Spirals into "everyone hates me" thinking.
Group work conflicts
Disagreements feel like personal rejection.
Teacher firmness
A strict tone is perceived as anger or dislike.
Competitive activities
Losing or not being the best triggers shame.
Tips for Teachers
Correct Privately When Possible
Instead of calling out mistakes in front of the class, have a quiet word at their desk or during break.
Lead with Positives
Before any correction, acknowledge what they did well. "Great effort on the story! Let's look at the spelling together."
Warn Before Transitions
Give advance notice of changes: "In five minutes we're going to switch activities." Surprises increase anxiety.
Have a Calm-Down Signal
Agree on a signal (card on desk, hand gesture) that the child can use when they need a break without announcing it.
Create a Safe Space
Designate somewhere the child can go when overwhelmed - a quiet corner, library, or office.
Separate Effort from Achievement
Praise the work they put in, not just the result. This reduces perfectionism pressure.
For Parents: Working with School
Request a Meeting
Ask to meet with the class teacher and SENCO (UK) or guidance counsellor (US) to discuss your child's needs.
Share Information
Explain what RSD is and how it affects your child specifically. Bring this resource to help them understand.
Suggest Accommodations
Come with specific, realistic requests based on what helps at home.
Create a Communication Plan
Agree how school will notify you of incidents and how you'll share what's working.
Follow Up Regularly
Schedule check-ins to review what's working and adjust as needed.
Helpful School Accommodations
Classroom
- Preferential seating (near teacher, away from triggers)
- Signal card for "need a break"
- Written instructions, not just verbal
- Extra processing time for questions
- Check-ins with a trusted adult
- Reduced public speaking requirements
Assessment & Feedback
- Advance notice of tests
- Feedback given privately, not on displayed work
- Focus on growth, not comparison to peers
- Rubrics provided in advance
- Option to redo work after feedback
- Celebration of effort, not just achievement
Social/Emotional
- Access to a safe space when overwhelmed
- Check-ins with school counsellor
- Social skills group if available
- Lunchtime club options (structured social time)
- Buddy system for transitions
- Anti-bullying support
Communication
- Daily home-school communication book
- Email updates on significant events
- Regular parent-teacher check-ins
- Clear behaviour expectations shared
- Warning before changes to routine
- Named point of contact at school
Formal Support Options
UK Options
- SEN Support: In-class support without formal diagnosis
- EHCP: Education, Health and Care Plan for more significant needs
- Reasonable Adjustments: Schools must make these under Equality Act
US Options
- 504 Plan: Accommodations for students with disabilities
- IEP: Individualized Education Program for more significant needs
- Informal Plan: Agreement with teacher without formal process
School Can Be Positive
With the right understanding and support, children with RSD can thrive at school. It takes collaboration between parents and teachers, but the investment pays off in a child who feels safe to learn and grow.