The Settling in Session Guide

The Compass Check: A Back-to-School Wellbeing & Transition Tool

Help every child find their bearings after the first-week rush.

The first week back at school is a whirlwind. For many children—especially those who are neurodivergent or prone to anxiety—the transition from home to the classroom can be overwhelming, sensory-heavy, and exhausting.

The Compass Check is a practitioner-led resource designed to move beyond the standard "How was your day?" and get to the heart of how a child is truly settling in.

Why use this resource?

Unlike a standard worksheet, this is a facilitator’s guide meant to spark gentle, meaningful dialogue. It helps educators and counselors:

• Identify Early Warning Signs: Spot patterns of worry or social withdrawal before they escalate.
• Audit the Environment: Discover which areas of the school (sensory triggers, noisy corridors, or playground spots) are causing distress.
• Support Neurodiversity: Tailored prompts that acknowledge masking, sensory load, and the need for "downtime."
• Build Trust: Strengthen the adult-child bond through active listening and validation.

What’s Included?

A beautifully laid-out, easy-to-follow guide featuring seven key steps:

1. Setting the Tone: Creating a psychological "safe space."
2. Feelings Exploration: Unpacking the emotional highs and lows.
3. Friendship & Social Check: Mapping social dynamics and kindness.
4. Learning Reflections: Gauging engagement and resilience.
5. Environmental Triggers: Identifying sensory or situational "pinch points."
6. Neurodivergent Considerations: Expert tips on what to look for beneath the surface.
7. Positive Closing: Ending on a note of pride and capability.

Perfect For:

• Classroom Teachers (Ideal for Circle Time or Friday afternoons)
• SENCOs & Inclusion Leads
• School Counselors & ELSA staff
• Nannies & Tutors supporting a child’s school transition

Format: Instant Download (High-Quality PDF) Target Age: Primary / Elementary (Ages 5–11)

Ensure no child gets lost in the transition. Add "The Compass Check" to your toolkit today.