Starting School: What Parents Need to Know

Starting school is a major milestone for your child, and often comes with many questions and some uncertainty. As your child embarks on their educational journey, the transition into school life can be a significant change for both of you. In this guide, we look to share the best ways to help you prepare for your child starting school and essential points to ensure your child has a positive start.

School Hours

First and foremost, familiarise yourself with your new school hours. Knowing the start and end times will help you plan your day and schedule while preparing your child and establishing a routine. Ensuring your child gets enough rest by setting up consistent bedtime routines will be essential for smooth mornings. Also, punctuality is key to making a good first impression and keeping this up will have a positive effect on your child’s school experience.

Parent Groups

Some schools offer group chats for parents to get in touch with one another or possibly a class group chat. Connecting with other parents can be a great benefit. These group chats are great for asking questions, sharing information, and building a support network with other parents who are in a similar situation. By getting involved in these chats, you will receive valuable insights while feeling integrated into the school community.

Volunteering at School

Volunteering can be an exciting way to get involved in your child’s education. Whether helping during an event or accompanying the class on a school trip, your participation will show your child that you are invested in their educational journey. This opportunity can also give you a first-hand look into the school and classroom environment, helping you build relationships with staff and other parents.

Parent Teacher Association

Most primary schools have a Parent Teacher Association team that can organise events, activities, fundraisers, meetings with the headteacher and so on. Joining the parents’ association at your school gives you the opportunity to have a say in school matters and contribute to the school’s development. This is a great way to make a difference and to be in the loop with school initiatives. Read more about Parent Teacher Association here.

Get to Know the Teacher

Getting to know your child’s new primary school teacher and establishing a relationship will prove to be beneficial. You can attend parent-teacher meetings or call the school to set up a meeting yourself. This way you can make the introduction early on and stay in regular communication about your child’s progress and any areas of your child’s education that may need improvement. Meeting your new teacher early on will also provide the opportunity to let the teacher know about your child, their needs, behaviours and so on. A collaborative approach will ensure your child receives the best support.

 Talk About School Positively

Your attitude towards school will shape your child’s perception of this new journey. Be sure to talk about school in a fun and engaging way while highlighting exciting aspects like making new friends, learning new topics, having a new uniform and so on. Encourage open communication with your child to discuss any anxieties they may be having and reassure them that this is completely normal.

Arranging with Work

If possible, you can take some time off work during the first day or week of school. This gives you time to plan your schedule, get used to the drop-offs and pick-ups, and will aid your child in feeling secure and supported. Taking time off gives you a chance to see how your child is settling in and if there are any concerns you may want to address promptly.

Handling the School Drop-Off

School drop-offs can be an emotional experience for most parents and their children. Here are our quick and easy tips for what to do at the school drop-offs:

1. Have a goodbye ritual. This could be as simple as a hug and kiss on the forehead, or a fun handshake or a simple joke between the two of you.
2. Once you say goodbye don’t stay around for too long.
3. Don’t disappear suddenly. Your child shouldn’t feel like they have abruptly lost you or have been ripped away from you.
4. With the school’s permission, you may be able to bring a comforting soft toy or blanket.
5. When you come back for pick-ups, remind your child that you came back and will always be there for them at the end of the day.

Following Up After School

After school, take the time to talk to your child about how their school day went, what they learnt and anything they want to share. Listen to your child attentively and provide them with reassurance and praise, these daily follow-ups will help you both stay connected and encourage your child to constantly share their school experience with you.

Starting school is a major milestone, but with preparation, a positive approach, and some key aspects to keep in mind, you can make this a rewarding experience for yourself and your child. You can read our blog, ‘Practical Tips for Getting Your Child Ready for School’ to learn more in-depth preparations to make for this thrilling journey. There are always ways to assist your child through their school journey, whether through conversations, emotional support, learning skills toys or educational toys.

We hope you enjoy the new adventures school life brings!

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