Helping Your Child Transition to Primary School

The summer holidays are here, and for many families, September will bring an exciting new chapter - starting primary school. While this milestone is full of opportunities for growth and discovery, it can also feel like a big change for children (and for parents!). With a little preparation in August, you can help your child feel confident, capable, and ready for their first day. 

Talk About What’s Coming Up

Start conversations about school in a positive, relaxed way. Share pleasant stories from your own school days, talk about what your children might do in a typical day, and encourage them to share any questions or worries. A friendly chat over breakfast or during play can help them feel more at ease.

Visit and Familiarise

If possible, take a walk past the school over the summer so your child becomes familiar with the journey and the surroundings. Spotting the playground, school gate, or even the route you’ll take can make everything feel less daunting when the time arrives.

Practise Independence Skills 

Encouraging small self-care skills now can help boost confidence later. Simple activities like putting on their own shoes, using the toilet independently, opening lunch containers, and tidying away toys all contribute to feeling ready for the school environment.

Keep a Gentle Routine 

During August, try to keep to a similar waking, eating, and bedtime pattern to what they’ll have during term time. This gentle consistency helps children adjust more smoothly to the school timetable.

Read Together About Starting School 

Books about starting school can be a wonderful way to explore the transition. They help children visualise what to expect and reassure them that their feelings are normal. Ask Tring library for recommendations - they often have seasonal displays at this time of year.

Encourage Social Opportunities 

Playdates with friends or time spent in group activities can help your child feel comfortable interacting with new children and adults - skills that will be valuable from the very first day.

Stay Positive and Reassuring 

Children often take their cues from the adults around them. Showing enthusiasm and speaking positively about the new experiences ahead can help them feel secure and excited.

At Pendley Day Nursery, we know that transitions are a big part of growing up and do what we can to help prepare the children. However, by spending a little time in August building your child’s confidence and independence further, you’ll help them step into September ready to enjoy everything primary school has to offer.

For more advice and support, our team at Pendley Day Nursery is always here to help! Please call us on: 01442 967140 or drop us an email to: info@pendleydaynursery.com. You’ll also find us on Facebook.