September is [almost] upon us, but is your child prepared for a major new stage in their life?

Former primary teacher Catherine Lynch of PlanBee is here to help you through this challenging transition

Moving into a new classroom can be scary and take a bit of getting used to for even the most confident child. For lots of children, moving into Reception will be their first time in a school environment.

But whether they are moving from a private nursery, from being at home full-time or being in a nursery class attached to a school, they will have to get used to new adults, peers, routines, expectations, and the large school setting. And that’s a big ask for a little one.

If ‘big school’ is looming, what can you do to help your child cope positively with this educational rite of passage?

1. Be positive about this transition; your child will pick up on your worries, so adopting an upbeat attitude to this exciting stage in their life is key.

2. Listen to your child, reassure them and try to understand what lies at the heart of their worry. Reassure them that you will support them, and don’t dismiss their concerns as unimportant or unfounded.

3. Arrange playdates with other children in their class; lots of parents use social media to create these connections.

By half-term, your little one should be starting to settle and enjoying the challenges of this new stage in their life. Good luck!