Top tips to prepare your child for their first day of school

Talk about school positively 

Discuss school in a positive light. Share your happy school memories and talk about the fun activities they will do, the friends they make and the new things they will learn. You can help them build excitement and reduce anxiety about their new school. 

Establish a routine 

Start practising the school routine a few weeks before school begins. This includes waking up early, having breakfast and getting dressed. A consistent routine helps children adjust to the new schedule more easily. 

Visit the school together 

Visit the school with your child before the first day. Show them their classroom, playground and other important areas. Familiarity with the environment can make the first day less intimidating. 

Read books about starting school 

There are many wonderful children’s books about starting school. Reading these together can help your child understand what to expect and feel more comfortable about the transition. 

Practise independence

Encourage your child to do simple tasks independently, such as dressing themselves, using the toilet and packing their school bag. These skills will boost their confidence and make them feel more independent. 

Prepare together

Involve your child in preparing for school. Let them choose their school supplies, pack their bag, and set out their school uniform for the first day. This involvement gives them a sense of control and excitement. 

Create a goodbye routine 

Develop a special goodbye routine for the morning drop-off. It could be a hug, a high-five or a special phrase. A consistent and positive goodbye can make the separation easier for both of you. 

Stay calm and positive 

Children can pick up on their parents’ emotions. Stay calm and positive about the first day of school. Your confidence will reassure your child that everything will be okay. 

Communicate with the teacher 

Introduce yourself to your child’s teacher and share any important information about your child. Good communication with the teacher can help address any concerns immediately and ensure a smooth transition. 

Celebrate the first day 

Plan a small celebration after the first day of school. It could be a special treat, a fun activity or simply spending quality time together. Celebrating this milestone reinforces the positive experience. 

You can help your child feel prepared and excited for their first school day. Remember, your support and encouragement are vital to making this transition a positive and memorable experience for your little one.