Get Them Ready for School!
I can’t believe we are…
… nearly in the final week of the school holidays! It has been a whirlwind of playtime, cuddles, errands, friends visiting, day tips, airports, beaches, supermarkets, argument mediation, tripping over toys, late nights, early starts and, of course, the odd temper tantrum... but I wouldn't have it any other way!
As the first day of school approaches, I know how exciting (and maybe a little nerve-wracking) it can be to prepare your little one for this big step. Starting school is such a special milestone and I want to share a few tips that might help ease the transition for both you and your child.
Here are five things to focus on as you get ready for the big day:
Practice the Morning Routine
Try practicing the morning routine with your child. This could include waking up at the same time that they will be for school and having breakfast, as a family, at 'term time' pace! (My children need to be out of the door by 8am for school so we have got a LOT of practising next week to try and get ourselves back to our 'term' time zone!)Encourage Independence
School is a big step towards independence, so now’s the perfect time to encourage your child to do some things on their own, like dressing themselves (ideally with their actual uniform and P.E. clothes), packing their bag, or tidying up toys. Small successes build confidence!Talk About School Positively
Chat with your child about what to expect at school. Share stories about what you loved about school and focus on the fun things they’ll experience—like making new friends, playing games, and learning amazing things. Your enthusiasm will help them feel excited too.Familiarise Them with School Items
If you have their school supplies already, let them explore! Show them how to use their backpack, lunchbox, and any other items they’ll need. This helps make everything feel more familiar and less intimidating.Set Up a Bedtime Routine
A consistent bedtime routine can help ensure your child gets enough sleep, which is so important for those busy school days. A bath, storytime, and some quiet moments before bed can make all the difference.
Enjoy the rest of the summer holidays- I bet it is hard to believe that in just a matter of weeks, they will be bringing home their very first decodable phonics books to read TO you!
