As many parents begin to think ahead to their child starting school in September, we thought it would be helpful to share some tips to support parents in ensuring a smooth and happy transition to school for their child regardless of the school they are joining.
Having taught Reception class for over ten years, Miss Walsh, Reception Teacher at Rookwood School, has witnessed hundreds of children taking their first steps into school. Based on her experience, here are her top tips:
1. Develop independence in dressing
Teaching your child to dress themselves is a valuable skill that builds independence and confidence. Help them understand the order in which they should dress themselves, from putting on their socks to buttoning up their shirt. By practicing this routine at home before September, your child will feel more prepared for their school days where they will be changing from their uniform into their PE kit each week.
2. Provide plenty of opportunities for socialising
Encourage your child to socialise with others and experience different settings before starting school. Places like Tots City in Andover provide fantastic opportunities for children to interact with others, including taking turns, and engage in imaginative play, helping them develop crucial social skills ahead of when they start school.
3. Introduce fun ways to learn numbers
Explore numbers in everyday environments with your child. Count objects, spot numbers, and engage in practical counting activities during playtime. Here are some examples:
- How many number 4s can you spot on our walk?
- How many steps can you take in the big puddle?
- Can you set 3 plates for your teddy bears’ picnic?
This hands-on approach helps children grasp numerical concepts more effectively in time for starting school.
4. Encourage writing but take a relaxed approach
It is perfectly okay if your child does not want to engage with writing before they start school. However, if they do, allow them to have a go. One thing to be mindful of is to avoid teaching them to write in capital letters as it’s surprisingly difficult to change this once they start school. Consider offering them opportunities to practice writing their name using different materials like sticks in materials such as mud or sand. It keeps it fun and helps to develop their fine motor skills.
5. Focus on keeping any pre-school learning fun
Activities like sensory play, outdoor exploration, and storytelling are excellent ways to nurture your child’s curiosity and eagerness to learn and help to keep learning fun. This is vitally important, as the fun and enjoyment they experience before school will help ensure they develop a happy association with learning.
As you embark on this journey together, remember that every child develops at their own pace. By creating supportive and stimulating experiences between now and when they start school, they will feel encouraged and ready to explore and discover new things in time for starting school.
I wish you all the very best.
Miss Walsh
Reception Teacher
If you would like to learn more about life in Reception at Rookwood, please contact us and a friendly member of our team will be happy to help you. Alternatively, you would be welcome to attend our next Open Morning taking place from 09.00 – 12.00 on Thursday 2nd May.
