The transition from school to nursery is a huge step for your child, with plenty of new experiences and challenges to face. `Understandably, it’s a transition that can be exciting yet overwhelming for you both. However, the good news is that knowing the best ways to prepare and support your child during this time can make all the difference when the big day arrives. In this blog, we’ve put together some tips on how to make the move to big school a positive experience for your child and you.
1. Start the Conversation Early
Well in advance of their first day, start introducing the idea of school into family discussions, framing it as an exciting new adventure your child will go on. Draw on your own school experiences - the friendships you made and the things you learnt - as a way to drum up excitement. It’s these kinds of conversations that will plant the seed of curiosity in your child and make them more enthusiastic about starting school.
2. Visit the New School
Visiting your child’s new school together can work wonders for first-day jitters. Whether it’s during an open day or a walk around the school playground, these visits can create a sense of familiarity with the new setting, making it less daunting when it’s time to start.
3. Establish a Routine
We all know how important routine can be for our kids, and if your child has already attended nursery, they’ll already be familiar with a structured day. Introducing a school-like routine at home towards the end of the summer holidays, such as adjusting bedtimes and morning routines, can help to make the new start feel more comfortable on their first day.
4. Encourage Independence
When children start school, they tend to find that they need to start doing more for themselves independently. You can help them prepare for this new-found independence by introducing daily tasks like dressing themselves, packing their bag or trying to tie their shoelaces. Rewarding moments of independence will help your child feel more confident at school.
5. Connect with Other Parents and Children
Companionship makes everything easier. If your child has fellow nursery friends who are also starting school, arranging playdates can help strengthen friendships that will help make school more enjoyable. It can also be reassuring for both you and your child knowing that they have a friend at school.
Of course, this tip can apply to you as a parent as well! Other parents of school-starters are likely feeling just as anxious, and through connecting with them it can be comforting to know that you aren’t alone in this experience.
We’re Here to Help
If your child is getting close to school-starting age, it’s normal to feel anxious. At Blue Nest Montessori School, we prioritise early child development and play-based learning in order to equip your child with the necessary skills and qualities that will prepare them for a smooth transition to school. Our compassionate team also aims to support parents throughout this process with understanding and practical advice. For more information, please get in touch.
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