As the new term approaches, it's a good idea to ease into the school routine. This helps your child become accustomed to the schedule they'll follow on school days, including waking up, bedtime, and meal times. Activities like bath time and bedtime stories, rather than TV or tablet games, can help children wind down before sleep. Allocating some time in the evening to have a 10-minute chat about your day can create a special routine for sharing experiences and addressing any concerns.
A fun filled morning and then home in time for lunch
This week your child will get to stay for lunch with their new friends
It's time to start full time school with the other children
Engage in a conversation with your child about the upcoming school start. Ask them what they imagine school will be like, what excites them the most, and if there's anything they're unsure or concerned about. This dialogue can help address any concerns they may have and create a positive and open atmosphere for discussing their expectations and feelings.
Explore the school's brochure, prospectus, or website together with your child. Discuss the pictures and the information you find. If possible, plan a visit to the school with your child before they start, either during link sessions or school fêtes. This visit can help familiarize your child with the school environment and make the transition to school smoother.
If your child is anxious about school, focus on the things they'll enjoy most, like the sandpit, playhouse, or making new friends. They might have friends from preschool joining reception, which can be reassuring. Concentrating on these positives can help ease their anxiety and create excitement for their upcoming school experience.
To prepare for school, practice the morning routine with your child. This includes getting dressed and having breakfast in time to leave. You can also experiment with different modes of transportation to school, whether it's walking, using a scooter, or taking the car. This practice can help establish a smooth morning routine and make the transition to school easier.
To keep your child's belongings safe and easily distinguishable, we kindly request that you label everything. You have the option to purchase printed labels in various styles, such as stickers or sew-in labels, or you can simply use a pen to mark the washing labels. To make book bags easily identifiable for your child, as they are all the same, we suggest adding a distinctive keyring to the bag. This helps ensure that your child can quickly recognize their own belongings.
If your child appears tired at the end of the school day, it's a good idea to allow them some quiet time or even a short nap when they get home. It's important to let them adjust to the demands of school before introducing after-school activities. Similarly, keeping the first few weekends quiet can provide them with the opportunity to recharge and adapt to their new school routine.
Children's transition to school life can vary - some adjust quickly, while others may take a bit longer. If your child is tearful on their first day, there's no need to fret. Our compassionate staff is here to provide support and make the transition more comfortable. In most instances, your child will be happily playing with new friends within just a few minutes.
Consistently engage in conversations with your child about their school experience and feelings. Allocate special time to discuss their day. Some children may initially be enthusiastic but can become reluctant to attend school regularly. In such cases, use a calendar to help them understand when weekends and holidays are, providing a visual way to look forward to breaks and alleviate any reluctance about going to school.
While most children come home tired but content, if you notice any changes in your child's behavior, we kindly request that you inform us as soon as possible. Our staff is readily available to provide assistance, support, and guidance. They have access to a wide range of valuable resources to address any concerns or challenges your child may be facing.
Soon adds up and is the equivalent of your child missing:
