As the start of term approaches, try to get into the school routine, so your child gets used to getting up, going to bed, and having meals and snacks at the times they will on school days. Bath time and stories instead of TV and tablet games all help children to wind down before bedtime. Making time in the evening to chat about your day for 10 minutes can be a lovely routine for sharing fun times and any worries. Nutritious meals and plenty of sleep will help them to concentrate, learn and thrive at school.
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
Chat with your child about starting school. What do they think it will be like? What are they most looking forward to? Is there anything they’re unsure or worried about?
Look at the school’s brochure, (prospectus) or website together and talk about the pictures. If possible, visit us with your child before they start – either on the link sessions or school fêtes.
If your child seems anxious about school, try focusing on the things they’ll like best – maybe the sandpit, playhouse or new friends. Perhaps they have some friends from preschool who will be starting reception at the same time.
Practise the school morning routine, including getting dressed and eating breakfast in time to leave. You could even experiment with different ways to get to school, walking, scooter, or in a car.
We ask you to label everything to help keep your childs belongings safe. You can buy a variety (stickers or sew in styles) of printed labels or you can use a pen and mark the washing labels. As all the book bags are the same we ask you to add a distinctive keyring to the bag to make it easily identifiable to your child.
If your child seems exhausted at the end of the day, let them have some quiet time or even a nap when they get home. Also let your child get used to school life before introducing afterschool activities. Likewise keep your first few weekends quiet for recharging.
Many children settle into school life very easily, while others take longer. Although its hard, try not to worry if your child is tearful on their first day our staff are on hand to help and support your child. Your child will most likely be happily playing within a few minutes.
Keep talking to your child about their feelings about school, and put aside some special time to chat about their day. Some children are enthusiastic at first, but once the reality of going to school day after day sets in, they can become reluctant. If this happens with your child, use a calendar to help them understand when weekends and holidays are.
Most children come home tired but happy, however if you notice a change in your child's behaviour we ask that you let us know as soon as possible. Our staff are on hand to help and offer support and guidance. They also have access to fantastic selection of resources.
Soon adds up and is the equivalent of your child missing:
Find out more about our school day here.
