The Brightside: Tips for Preparing Your School Starter

9 days ago

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Written by

The Brightside: Tips for Preparing Your School Starter

9 days ago

·

Written by

The Brightside: Tips for Preparing Your School Starter

Sending your child off for their first year of school is a monumental moment filled with a mix of excitement and apprehension (and, let’s face it, a few tears—yours, not theirs). As a parent, you want to ensure they feel confident, prepared, and ready to thrive in their new environment. Here are some of our top tips to help you navigate this milestone.

1. Establish a Routine Early

According to child psychologist Dr. Jane Williams, a predictable routine provides children with a sense of security. Start implementing school-time schedules at least two weeks before the first day. This includes consistent wake-up times, meal schedules, and bedtime routines.

Tip: Gradually adjust bedtime and morning routines to align with school start times, ensuring your child has ample sleep.

2. Foster Independence

Encouraging self-reliance builds confidence. Teaching kids basic independent tasks such as packing their bags, tying shoelaces, and understanding their lunchbox with what is for morning tea, lunch, etc. Maggie Dent recommends focusing on “filling their confidence cup” by celebrating small wins as they learn.

Activity Idea: Create a checklist with your child for their daily school essentials. Practice packing together the night before.

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3. Talk About Emotions

Starting school can stir a whirlwind of emotions for kids. Excitement, fear, and tiredness are some of the most common. Be sure to engage in plenty of open conversations about feelings. Normalise their fears and excitement by sharing your own school memories. It is also quite common for children to love the first week of school and then quickly change their minds the following week when they realise they need to adhere to this new, everyday routine for the rest of the year! Good things take time, so remember to be patient with them and ensure they get plenty of rest time at home.

Tip: Role-play common school scenarios, such as meeting new friends or asking the teacher for help, to boost your child’s confidence in navigating social interactions.

4. Visit the School Together

Familiarity reduces anxiety. Many schools offer orientation days for new students. If possible, take advantage of these opportunities to explore the school grounds and meet teachers. Make sure your child knows where important facilities are located, like the toilet block, drinking fountains, and the school office.

Bonus Tip: Practice the school drop-off and pick-up routine to help your child visualise their daily journey.

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5. Label Everything

Teachers unanimously agree that labelling your child’s belongings saves everyone from unnecessary stress. From lunchboxes to hats, ensure everything is clearly marked with your child’s name.

Pro Tip: Use iron-on labels or waterproof markers to make the process easy and durable.

6. Focus on Social Skills

Developing social skills is as crucial as academics. Teach your child to share, take turns, and express their needs politely. Teaching them to use phrases like “please”, “Thank you”, and “Do you want to be my friend”. These skills will help them form friendships and adjust to group settings.

Tip: Organise playdates with future classmates to build connections before the school year begins.

7. Prepare for the Unexpected

Another tip is to prepare your child for potential hiccups, such as a forgotten lunch or an unexpected schedule change. Explain that it’s okay to make mistakes and that teachers are there to help.

Tip: Teach your child simple problem-solving phrases, like “Can you help me, please?”

8. Read Books About Starting School

Books are a fantastic way to help kids visualise and relate to new experiences. Titles like “The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn or “First Day Jitters” by Julie Danneberg offer relatable and comforting narratives.

Reading Tip: Discuss the story and ask your child how they feel about their first day to encourage open dialogue.

9. Pack Balanced Lunches

A nutritious lunch keeps energy levels steady throughout the day. Include a mix of protein, fruits, and whole grains. Avoid overly sugary snacks that might lead to energy crashes.

Idea: Involve your child in lunch preparation to make them more excited about eating their meals. And don’t forget to slip in a surprise note or sticker for extra smiles.

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10. Be Positive and Reassuring

Children often mirror their parents’ emotions. This might be especially hard for Mums and Dads on the first day but please! Keep it together until you are outside the school grounds (then feel free to ugly cry in the car). Maintain a positive attitude about school in front of your child and reassure them you will return in the afternoon to pick them up.

Tip: Avoid long goodbyes at drop-off. A quick hug and a cheerful “See you later!” helps ease the transition.

Starting school is a big step for both children and parents. By laying a strong foundation of routines, independence, and emotional support, you’ll set your child up for a successful and enjoyable school experience. And remember, it’s okay to feel emotional—this is a milestone worth celebrating and maybe even a cheeky celebratory coffee after drop-off!

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