Helping my child get ready for starting school

1. Overview

Starting school is a key transition in a child’s life and we need help to support our children to be confident and look forward to starting school.

Transitions can be difficult for many children and it is important to be aware that some are more vulnerable than others. Creating a smooth transition into school is vital to ensure your child gets the best possible start in their new setting.

We want to help to support you and your child through this time and make it as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Children often pick up on how their parents are feeling.

This special guide is designed to support you with ideas, reduce any anxieties and feel confident that you have shared all the information that you wanted, to help the school begin to get to know the individual needs of your child.

The document What to expect in the Early Years Foundation Stage: a guide for parents will give you more information about the learning and development expectations for your child. Remember, your child is unique and their starting points may be different to other children.

Personal, social and emotional development, alongside communication and language, are a key focus to support your child’s confidence and wellbeing as they prepare to start school.

Transition is not just an experience for the individual child but for everyone around the child. Your child’s confidence, security and happiness are the priority.