• Sunshine Holiday Club running this half term!!! - Please see the Sunshine Holiday Club page for more... More →

Starting school is a big step for children.  Imagine how you would feel going into a building for only the first or second time, meeting up to thirty new people and having to learn new routines and roles – all on the same day!  It isn’t surprising that many children are scared on their first day, and are full of questions (many of which they can’t articulate).  However, many children are remarkable resilient and the great majority settle in within a few days.

Preparation is the key for ensuring that your child feels as secure and happy as possible when he starts school.  There are a lot of things that you can do to help.  Think about it from your child’s perspective – what do they normally panic about?  Is it where they will go to the toilet, what they will eat, or being separated from you?  If you can alleviate as many of these fears as possible before they start school, you will be waving off a much happier child.  Here are some of the most common worries:

• Where do I sit?

• Where do I put my lunchbox and when do I eat my lunch?

• Where do I put my bag?

• Where is the toilet?

• What do I do if I need the toilet?

• What if I get lost?

• Will mum come back for me on time and will she know where I am?

• Will my friends from nursery/pre-school be there?

• Will I be there all day?

• What will I do all day?

• What do I do at playtime/lunch?

• What happens if I get my uniform dirty?

Children will be comforted if they know that all the other children will be feeling the same way.  It is also good for them to know that their teacher will be very patient with them and that they aren’t expected to know all the routines straight away and reassure them that it won’t matter if they get it wrong.  It is important for you to be entirely positive about the whole experience and to concentrate on all the exciting aspects – new toys to play with, new friends to make and the interesting things they will learn about.  It is beneficial to do the route to school with your child prior to the first day, so you will both know what to expect, how long it will take and where you can park.

PRACTICALITIES

You don’t want to be late on the first day!  And you don’t want your child to feel rushed.  It is best to leave more time that you think you will need to avoid any last minute panics. Get as much ready as possible the night before – school uniform, packed lunch and school bag.  Make sure your child has a good breakfast and perhaps tell him about a little treat you have planned when he’s finished his first day at school.

SAYING GOODBYE

Most reception teachers will let you bring your child into the classroom for the first few days, but it is still best to say goodbye quickly, reassure your child that you wil be back to pick him up at the end of the day and leave with a smile on your face – even if you’re crying on the inside!

If your child continues to be worries after a few weeks and doesn’t seem to be enjoying school it is worth talking to them about what is worrying them and also talk to their teachers.  Your child’s concerns are unlikely to be unique and a teacher will be able to advise you and work with youto ensure that your child is happy at school.