Getting Ready For School

Here are a few things you can do at home to help your child get the best start at school.

Be positive when talking about school, even if you are anxious yourself
Involve them in buying uniform, new shoes etc – don’t buy them too early though, as your child may have a growth spurt over the summer!
Toilet-train your child and encourage them to use the toilet independently
Encourage your child to get dressed/undressed independently – this will help with PE
Buy clothes that are easy to fasten – Velcro shoes are much easier than laces
Put your child’s name in all their belongings – if anything gets misplaced it’s easier to get it back to you
Teach your child how to use a knife and fork
Encourage your child to try different foods and talk about the lunch menu– school dinners won’t be as scary if they are familiar with what they are eating
Encourage your child to tell an adult if they need help with anything or something is wrong. It’s much easier to sort things out when they happen
Share books with your child every day – they don’t have to be able to read, talk about the pictures etc
Teach your child to recognise their name
Spend time every day talking with your child – speaking and listening are important skills
Do a ‘dummy run’ before your first day at school so you know how long it will take – you don’t want to be rushing and arrive late
Try not to get upset in front of your child on their first day – children can pick up on your mood.

Please don’t feel pressured to teach your child to read, write and do maths before they start school – that’s what the teachers will do. You can support school by helping your child with their self-care and social skills.