Starting School

Starting school is a huge event in a child’s (and parent’s) life. There are new routines, new clothes and other new children. Having seen this transition as a Deputy Head Teacher, and more recently as a parent, I believe that there are some things that parents can do to make this move as smooth as possible. Here are my top four thoughts.

Firstly, there are some brilliant books about starting school. My all-time favourite is Starting School by the Alhbergs. It’s obviously dated in parts. For instance, most schools won’t have a mum who comes into school to play the piano! However, it is beautifully illustrated and shows the different parts of the school day and  events during the first term at school which provide lots to talk about. Other great titles are ‘Bella Starts School’ and ‘Harry and the Dinosaurs go to School’, both by Ian Whybrow. It’s well worth investing in a book or two, as they can be revisited lots of times during the school year.

Secondly, visit the new school in whatever ways that you can. Children who drop off older brothers and sisters everyday are often desperate to get into school. I’ve known two years olds make a bolt for the Reception sand tray! This daily visit wasn’t possible for us as Little Lady is an only child. We made do by visiting the park next to school during the holidays. We peered through the railings and talked about going to school. As a bonus, we met some children starting school at the same time in the park. Again, not everyone can do that but try and find something that works for you and your child.

Thirdly, looking at photos of the school can be another way to give your child gentle reminders about starting school. Little Lady’s school helpfully sent home some photographs of key staff. This is quite unusual so you may have to find other ways. Some schools put staff photos on their website, or a very kind teacher may let your child take a selfie with them when they go for a visit. On the new parents’ evening, I discreetly took a few pictures of things that my child would find interesting such as the mud pie kitchen and role-play area. These really were great for talking about school and making it sound and look exciting, along the lines of - you’re going to love playing in the kitchen area when you go to your new school.

Fourthly, get your child involved in getting things ready for school. You may order uniform online or it could be handed down from older siblings, so back to school shopping is not always a big event anymore. You may need to create a scenario such as going to choose a special water bottle or book bag. It’s also worth trying on the new uniform a couple of times before the first morning in September. It’s an opportunity to practise buttons and zips without the time pressure of needing to get other children ready, eat breakfast and actually leaving the house!