Starting Reception is one of the biggest milestones in your child's life — and yours! It's completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. Here's our guide to making the transition as smooth as possible.
Build Independence Skills Early
In the months before school starts, practise these everyday skills:
- Getting dressed independently — start with easy items like pull-on trousers and velcro shoes
- Using the toilet alone — including washing hands properly
- Eating lunch without help — practise opening lunchboxes, peeling fruit and using cutlery
- Putting on and taking off their coat
Establish a Routine
Children thrive on routine. A few weeks before school begins:
- Start waking up at "school time" — around 7am
- Have breakfast together at the table
- Practise the school run route so it feels familiar
- Build in a calm bedtime routine with stories
Talk Positively About School
Frame school as an adventure. Talk about the friends they'll make, the games they'll play, and the exciting things they'll learn. Read books about starting school — Starting School by Janet and Allan Ahlberg is a classic.
Visit the School
Most schools offer settling-in visits during the summer term. Take advantage of every opportunity. Walk past the school gates regularly so the building feels familiar.
Label Everything
This cannot be overstated — label every single item. Jumpers, coats, water bottles, lunch bags, shoes, PE kit. Children in Reception cannot read their own names yet, so choose labels with a picture or symbol too.
Know That Tears Are Normal
Some children cry at drop-off for the first few weeks. This is completely normal and almost always stops within minutes. Teachers are experts at distraction and comfort. Trust them.
Key Dates to Remember
- School uniform shopping: July–August
- Settling-in sessions: Usually June–July
- First full day: Early September
Your child will surprise you with how quickly they adapt. And if you need holiday childcare to bridge the gap between term time and work, our holiday camps are here to help!