Transition to school

Now is the time to start helping your child get ready for school. Even if your child went to school last year, returning to school after a long break is a big change.

Here are some simple ways you can help: 

• Talk about it as much as possible. Parents may avoid talking about returning to school in case it upsets their child but talking about it is DEFINITELY better than avoiding it!

  The more you talk about it, the more familiar the idea will be when the day comes and therefore, less stress. 

• Mark the return to school on a calendar your child can see and have them cross off the days so they can mentally prepare.

• Look at photos of school, their friends, their new teacher, and/or drive past the school frequently and talk about it. This will start the conversation and gives them an opportunity to bring up anything they might be worried about.  

• Have them talk about what they think they might do on the first day, who they might play with etc. This helps them to visualise themselves at school, in their uniform, with their friends and start to think about it positively. 

• Write a list together about everything they like/are excited about in relation to school. Read the list together every day. 

• Acknowledge and allow their feelings, even if it’s worry or sadness. You can remind them that it’s OK to be nervous, even if they’re excited as well. You might tell them about a time that you felt the same thing, like going back to your job after the holidays or back when you were at school!