Is your child starting school this year? Here’s how to navigate the transition

It’s a big step for the whole family.

Be positive and reassuring (Alamy/PA)

Starting primary school can be an exciting but equally nerve-racking adventure. So, don’t worry if you are feeling a little anxious about this new stage – it is huge step for little ones, as well as for parents and carers.

We asked experts to share some top tips for navigating the transition…Listen to their feelings

Simply chatting with your child about how they’re feeling about starting school can be really helpful.

“Listen to your child’s concerns and acknowledge their feelings,” advises Patricia Gawthrope, learning mentor at Park View Primary School in Manchester, who recently won a silver award at the Pearson National Teaching Awards in the ‘Unsung Hero’ category. “Reassure them that it’s normal to feel nervous or anxious.

“Discuss the new school, what activities they might take part in, and the new adults and friends they’ll meet.”

Role-play to help them prepare

Try role-playing some different scenarios with your child to help prepare them for the new challenges they might come across at school.

“Having a script and a visual tool helps children to better understand and self-manage during these challenging situations,” says Louise Pettifer, wellbeing and play expert at educational toy brand CONNETIX Tiles.

“Providing opportunities to play out everyday scenarios – such as cooking, playing shops and resolving conflict – helps children navigate social experiences. Plus, it also helps build communication skills and empathy towards others. ”

Chat to their teachersIt’s a good idea to foster good communicating with your child’s teachers too.

“Make sure their teachers are up to date with any situations happening at home, or any feelings your child may have been experiencing,” advises Gawthrope. “They will be there to support your child through this transition as much as you are. Remember they see this every year, so will be the experts in how to help you both.”

Build social connections

Arranging play dates can help embed yourself and your child into the school community.

“Reach out to parents who are going through the same thing, and ideally with children going to the same school as yours,” suggests Gawthrope. “Organising coffee or play dates for you and your child will help establish relationships between the children, and they will have a friendly face in the classroom from day one.”

Maintain a positive attitude

Be optimistic, and remember that primary school is a wonderful opportunity for your child to develop both academically and socially.

“Stay upbeat and calm to help your child feel reassured,” says Gawthrope. “When discussing learning, use positive language so your child will see this experience as something new and fun, instead of something scary.”

Do a test run

The unknown can be scary for both parents and school-starters, so doing a test run is a great idea.

“Show your child pictures of the school and their teachers, run through the commute in the morning on a sunny day and get them to try on their uniform,” suggests Laura Whitwood, head of junior school at St Dunstan’s College.

Prepare for the first day

Schools can be busy places, so having everything ready for their first day will enable you to hit the ground running.

“Make sure that their bag is packed and ready to go in advance, and that you have read through important literature, like a parent handbook sent by school,” recommends Whitwood. “Taking as much stress out of the first week as possible will help you focus on your child.

“Having meals prepared for dinner and a calendar pinned to the fridge with important dates to remember will take the pressure off once term starts.”