Countdown to the Big Day: Tips for a Smooth School Transition
Count Down Together Get excited for the first day of school by marking the days on a calendar, removing marbles from a jar, or popping numbered balloons. This year, we've created special bunting to highlight key events leading up to school. This visual countdown helps children know what to expect and when, making the transition feel more manageable.
How will you count down?
Talk About It Engage your child in conversations about their feelings. Ask them what they’re excited about and what worries them. Discuss possible scenarios and validate their emotions. You might say, “What would you tell a friend feeling this way?” or “Who could help if you start to feel anxious?” Reading stories about school can also help them connect their experiences and prepare them better. Don’t forget to practice practical skills, like putting on a coat and dealing with tricky zips.
What skills do you need to practise?
Get Organised Create a checklist to help streamline your morning routine. Start with a few items and gradually add more as your child becomes more confident. An organised approach ensures you all leave the house calmly and on time. Take a look around—are there any adjustments you can make to ease the morning rush?
What changes can you make around the house to help everyone leave calmly?
Prioritise Self-Care
As the school term begins, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Make sure to take time for yourself—whether that’s a relaxing walk, a hot cup of tea, or a quiet moment to yourself. If you struggle with self-care, consider 1:1 Wellbeing coaching to help you manage the transition better. Your well-being is crucial as you support your child through their first few weeks of school.
What do you need this week? How can you prioritise those needs?
Prepare for After-School Pack snacks for your child to avoid the dreaded “hangry” moments after school. Ensure you’re ready to connect with them and provide comfort after a day of managing new expectations. Plan easy meals and calming activities to help them unwind and re-establish your connection.
What snacks will you pack? How can you be your own best friend? What easy, non-confrontational meals can you prepare? What activities can you use to help reconnect with or calm an overwhelmed child?
Smooth the Home-School Transition Understand your child’s needs when they come home. Some may need physical activity to release energy, while others might crave emotional connection. Create a calming environment and consider setting up a relaxation space for them to decompress.
How can you ensure you have some quality reconnection time each day? How can you create a calm home environment for their return? Can you set up a chill-out zone for your child to relax in after school? Where could they expend some of their energy or release some big feelings?
Let Them Unwind Avoid pressing for details about their day right away. Children often share their experiences in their own time, such as during walks, baths, or when the day winds down. Find the best moments to talk and respect their pace in opening up.
What time of day does your child like to talk? What activities help with this communication?
Plan Reconnection Time With the busy school term, it’s important to schedule regular quality time with your child. Plan fun activities to reconnect and recharge. For example, consider setting up special “Mummy Mondays” or regular “daughter dates” to maintain that bond.
How can you have fun reconnecting and recharging during the holidays?
For more support and ideas, join my FREE Facebook group, where you'll find tips on managing smooth transitions: Join Here.
Explore my resources and book a free discovery call to see how I can assist you: The Early Years Coach. If you’re facing challenges with the transition, consider a 1:1 coaching session to develop personalised strategies for your family. Contact me at Jo@TheEarlyYearsCoach.com.
Stay tuned for our next blog, which will delve into managing anxiety.
Ken Robinson once said, “All children start their school careers with sparkling imaginations, fertile minds, and a willingness to take risks with what they think.” Let’s support them in making the most of this exciting journey!
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