HOW TO PREPARE YOUR 4 YEAR OLD FOR SCHOOL
With September looming, we all know that transitioning from nursery to big school can be a very daunting and anxious time not just for children, but for parents too. Here are some helpful tips to help and support the transition run as smooth as can be:
GET TO KNOW THE SCHOOL AND OTHER PARENTS.
By now you know what school your child is going to. Knowing everything and anything about the school is going to help, do they have a school uniform? Where is the best place to buy the uniform? Do they need anything extra? The school should give you all the information before your child starts but it is worth reaching out to other local parents as well as the school in case there is anything else useful to know.
ARE THEY READY?
It is totally normal for parents question if their child is ready for school. Don’t worry if your child can’t read or write yet, every child develops at their own pace and having faith in yourself, your school and child is essential. Teachers often have their own specific ways of teaching, and each child will have a different way of learning – don’t worry your teacher and their teaching assistant will encourage and motivate your child in a way they will understand. The best thing parents can do is be positive and confident, if they believe in us they will be just fine.
HOW CAN YOU SUPPORT YOUR CHILD?
Encouraging our child’s independence is crucial for our kids. From putting on their own shoes and socks (no matter how long it may take!) to being able to use the toilet on their own. Kids thrive off being helpful and independent so allowing them the space to do so is essential during this transition.
Over the holidays talk about school, talk about the things they will learn, how they will grow and the exciting new adventures they will have. Positive and exciting subjects will help them become excited about this new experience.
Talk about how they will play with their new friends and how exciting this time will be. Children, as we know, can be very emotional beings and sometimes they may be sad or angry about this transition but itis essential to allow these emotions to air safely. The more preparation we do the less anxious the transition will be come their first day.
MAKE IT SPECIAL.
We all know that children love having new things! Making the school start a ‘special’ event is always a positive. They will need a new backpack, lunchbox, shoes, pencil case, the list goes on. Having your child involved in the buying and choosing of their possessionswill help with this new, big step. Why not get your child to decorate their lunchbox?
The key is to keep them involved and present throughout this really special and excitingtime. Good luck to everyone who is starting school soon and to all the parents too! We would love to know how you help transition your child to start school!
Author: Helen Loder
Co-Director of Sevenoaks Mums