Things to note

• When your child starts primary school, orientation activities will help them get used to the school environment.
• Practical preparations such as organising their uniform, stationery, lunchbox and bag well before the first day will also help.
• School is a big transition. Children may need extra emotional support and rest during the first few weeks.

Getting used to their new primary school
It is good to familiarize your child with the school environment in the months and weeks before starting primary school. This includes routines and rules, as well as classrooms, play areas, bathrooms, water fountains, etc.

Here are some ideas:

If your child goes to a preschool or early childhood education center with a school transition program, make sure to attend the preschool on the days your child goes to “big school.”

• If your child doesn’t go to preschool, visit the school yourself or see if the school offers its own transition program.
• If possible, explore the school grounds with your child on the weekend.
• If possible, visit the school and meet your child’s teachers. Let your child know that their teachers will support them.
• If your child has after-school care, show them where it is.
• If possible, attend school events with your child, such as school assemblies and concerts.
• Make sure your child knows where to be picked up.
• Explain the school rules, such as uniforms, hats, sunscreen and behavior in the classroom and playground. Explain why these rules are important. For example: “If you need to go to the toilet, you have to say so, otherwise the teacher won’t know where you are.”

Practical preparations for primary school
It’s a good idea to prepare uniforms, lunch boxes, bags, stationery, etc., and write your child’s name clearly on them.

Before starting primary school, have your child try on their uniform and shoes to make sure everything fits properly. It’s a good idea to have your child try on their new school shoes a few days before school starts, and practice tying the shoelaces and buckles. Make sure your child wears a hat. Most schools require hats at least during the first and second semester of each year, and many require them all year round. Choose a backpack that your child can wear comfortably. Backpacks with adjustable straps are best. Choose lunch boxes and water bottles with lids that are easy to open. Your child can practice at preschool, on picnics, at home or in the park.

• Bring your child plenty of healthy meals and bottled water for both recess and lunch. This will give your child energy for the day.
• Check if the school has a healthy eating policy and prohibits foods that cause allergies.
• Check if your child needs anything else at school. For example, an art smock, book bag, pencils, markers, crayons, etc. If your child needs medication at school, allow a teacher to administer it under strict guidelines.

How to handle emotions when starting elementary school
Starting elementary school is a big change for your child, and they may feel both anxious and excited. Letting your child know that you think they will do well at school can help them develop a positive attitude.

Here are some ideas for dealing with mixed emotions:

• Try to plan a play date with other kids before the first day of school. Before school starts, it may be helpful for your child to know other kids who attend the same school. Give your child lots of love and support. When your child starts school, be excited and enthusiastic. This will send a positive message to your child that school is fun and that they can cope and enjoy it.
• If the topic of school comes up in your daily routine with your child, use this as an opportunity to start a conversation. But follow your child’s example. Talking about school too much can make your child even more nervous. Let your child know how their daily routine will change, including what time they have to get up in the morning, how to get to and from school, and what’s in their lunch box.
• Read children’s books about starting school with your child. Reading books about school can help you talk to your child about his or her feelings. Try Starting School by Janet and Allen Ahlberg or Starting School by Jane Godwin and Anna Walker.
• Discuss school support programs with your child. For example, consider a buddy program where older children support younger children in their first year of school.
• Try to send your child off to school with a confident and happy goodbye, and plan something nice for yourself, like grabbing coffee with a friend. Even if you’re sad or worried, keeping those emotions away from your child will help.

School Drop-Off

Try to drop your child off at school before the bell rings in the morning. It’s easier for your child to adjust to the school day when they’re not rushing in the morning. If your child is afraid of being separated from you, look for ways to distract them when you drop them off at school. For example, they could meet a friend at the gates or walk to school with another child and parent.
Try to pick up your child on time at the usual meeting point, as this will help your child feel safe. Picking up your child early also gives them a chance to meet other parents and organize play dates. At school.