Be School Ready
Welcome to one of the most exciting (and nerve-racking) parts of your parenting journey! We know there’s lots to do and remember in the lead up to their first day. That’s why our guide and online hub have all the information and advice your family needs during this exciting time. From emotional prep to playful learning activities at home, we’ve got tonnes of tips to get those bright young minds buzzing. Plus, we’re sharing scrumptious snack ideas to satisfy their appetites and savvy ways to save money as you prepare.
Be School Ready guide for parents
This guide is packed with information, tips and advice for parents whose children are starting school this September.
Starting primary school
Read the guide online Download the guide (PDF)
Starting secondary school
How to talk to your child on their first day of school
Check out our blog, written with the help of Louisa Rose, CEO of youth mental health charity Beyond, which offers practical advice on how best to support your child as they start their new school, and what to do should any issues arise.
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Preparing your child to start primary school is one of the most exciting (and nerve-racking) parts of the parenting journey, and sharing these experiences with other parents while you’re going through it can make such a difference to your wellbeing. You may be focused on your little one making friends, but don’t forget your own social life too! -
Every child is different. Some come home from the first day of school chattering about the dozen new best friends they’ve made, and others can take a little while to warm up to their classmates. But if you’re concerned about how your child will cope, there are lots of things you can do to grow their confidence before school starts.
Webinars for navigating parenthood
From fussy eating to building independence, our expert-led Navigating Parenthood webinars can help with any challenges you may face in your parenting journey as your child starts school.
What financial support can parents get?
Juggling home and school life is tough for every parent, but there are some financial support options available. Find out what you could be entitled to.
Read more
What I wish I knew…
We asked parents what they wish they knew before their little one started school — and now we’re sharing these insider tips with you to help you prepare! Check out what they said below.
Practice makes perfect
Check out this video to see some key skills that can give your child a head start in the classroom! Teaching your little one a few practical self-care skills before school starts can make a big difference. Remember, it’s perfectly okay if they haven’t mastered all of these skills—each child is unique! But even learning just one or two of these before September can free up more time for teachers to focus on your child’s learning.
Snack and meal planner
We know it can be tricky to keep track of how much your child eats at school, especially when every family member has their own busy schedule. To help you out, we’ve teamed up with the fabulous Jenny Tschiesche, also known as the Lunchbox Doctor, and created a fun snack and meal bingo! This guide offers great ideas and advice on what to stock up on and prepare during those exciting first few weeks of school to make meal planning a breeze and keep those little tummies happy!
Who’s who at school
Having clear and open communication with the school not only benefits your child, but it’ll make your life easier too. Asking questions, getting contact information and building relationships with staff are all things you can do before your child’s first day.
Here’s some of the people you may come across.
SEND support directory
Are you a parent of a primary school-aged child with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)? Our list of organisations, services and resources is a great place to start for support and guidance.
Meet other parents on our Facebook group
Is your child starting reception in 2024? Join the Be School Ready Facebook group to chat with and learn from other parents with children starting school this September.
Be School Ready content directly in your inbox
We’ll be launching new Be School Ready resources for 2024 soon. If you’d like to be emailed once new content is shared, you can sign up to have it delivered straight to your inbox below.
