Ready, Set, School! Preparing for the big September milestone

Starting school is a massive milestone—not just for your child, but for you as well. It is perfectly normal to feel a mix of excitement and first-day nerves. The good news is that “school readiness” isn’t about your 

child knowing the alphabet and their sounds or being able to count to ten before they walk through the gates. Instead, it is about building the confidence, independence, and everyday s

kills that will help them feel like they belong and are ready to learn.

Here is a guide on how you can use the coming months to prepare your child (and yourself) for a smooth start this September.

Focusing on Independence

Teachers often find that the most helpful skills a child can have are the ones that allow them to take care of themselves. You can practice these simple routines at home to boost your child’s confidence:

• Toileting and Hygiene: Aim for your child to be able to use the toilet independently and wash their hands afterwards. You can make handwashing fun by singing a short song together while they scrub (singing ‘Happy Birthday twice is a good starting point)!
• Getting Dressed: Practise putting on and taking off coats and shoes. Choosing shoes with Velcro and coats with easy-to-use zips can make a huge difference during busy school transition times like PE or playtime.
• Mealtimes: If your child will be having a packed lunch, practise opening their lunchbox and unwrapping food packaging at home. Encourage them to use a knife, fork and spoon or whatever tools they will be using to eat their midday meal.

 

Building Communication and Social Skills

School is a social environment, and helping your child to know how to express themselves will help them settle in quickly.

• Expressing Needs: Encourage your child to practise saying—or signing—when they need help, feel unwell, or need the toilet.
• Listening and Following Instructions: Play simple games like “Simon Says” or give them small “jobs” at home, such as “Can you get your shoes and wait by the door?” This helps them get used to following the kind of instructions they will hear in the classroom.
• Sharing and Feelings: Look for opportunities to practise turn-taking through board games or playing with balls. It is also helpful to talk about feelings. If they look worried or happy, name those emotions for them so they begin to recognise and talk about how they feel.

 

Creating Positive Home Routines

Small changes to your daily routine now can make the transition in September much easier.

• Healthy Habits: Try to establish a consistent bedtime and a morning routine that isn’t rushed.
• Read Together: Spending just a few minutes a day sharing a book or doing a puzzle helps build the focus your child will need for classroom activities.
• Screen Time Balance: While digital devices are part of life, try to balance screen time with plenty of outdoor play and chatting.
• The “Steps for School” Song: For a fun way to remember these skills, you can listen to the “Steps for School” song by MC Grammar, which highlights things like getting dressed and listening in a catchy way.

 

Preparing Yourself as a Parent

This is a “dual transition.” While your child is adapting to a new environment, you are managing a change in your own routine and identity as a parent.

• Build a Relationship with the School: Take advantage of every opportunity to visit. Whether it is a “stay and play” session, a coffee morning, or a home visit from the teacher, these interactions help you feel part of the school community.
• Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to voice your concerns, whether they are about toileting, separation anxiety, or special educational needs. Schools are experienced in supporting families and want to work with you from day one.
• Stay Calm at the Gates: Children often take their emotional cues from their parents. Even if you’re feeling emotional, try to stay calm and positive during drop-offs. Reassure them that you will always come back to pick them up.

Starting school is a journey of small steps. By practicing these everyday interactions and building a partnership with your new school, you are giving your child the very best foundation to walk through those doors feeling settled, confident, and ready to learn.