Starting School

We are nearly at the end of term and it is time for you to be thinking about getting ready for big school. Some of you will be coming to Haydn and some of you will be going to a different school but it will still be a change for everyone! But we think that you are all ready for this change - you have grown up so much over your year in nursery and you are able to do lots of new things!

You might feel excited or maybe a little nervous about starting somewhere new  - that's completely natural! But we know that your new teachers will love you and you will have an amazing time!

We are going to be thinking about the different things you can do to get yourselves ready for starting school in September. Where shall we begin? I like to begin with a story! I've found some of my favourite starting school stories for you here.

Grown-ups, sharing engaging stories and picture books about starting school is a great way to gently prepare your child for their first day.

Practising Skills

Here are some things you can practise at home to help you get ready for school. You could make a little checklist and tick off when you feel you're almost there! Don't worry if you can't do all of them yet - your new teachers will be there to help you!

Self-Care and Independence

• I can wash and dry my hands.

• I can wipe my nose.

• I can put on/fasten my coat and shoes.

• I can use the toilet.

• I am learning to dress/undress – this will help me change for PE.

• I am happy to be away from my parents or carers. I know they will be back soon.

Speaking and Listening

• I can talk about my ideas, needs and feelings.
• I can ask a grown-up for help.
• I can follow simple instructions.

Eating and Drinking

• I can use a spoon, knife and fork.
• I can open my lunch box as well as wrappers and packaging.
• I can drink from a water bottle, carton or open cup.

Numbers

• I can count a small number of items.
• I like singing number rhymes or songs.
• I am learning to say numbers to ten.
• I can recognise some numbers.

Reading and Writing

• I can recognise/read my name.
• I can hold a pencil to draw.
• I am learning to write my name.
• I enjoy listening to stories and rhymes.

Playing with Others

• I join in games and activities with other people.
• I can share and take turns.

Have a look at this Starting School Activity Pack - it's full of more ideas for you to use!

Think about what you would like to do when you start school. It might be to make some new friends or you might want to learn a new skill or read some new stories. Follow the link below to fill out your own Wish Upon a Star.

Here's a video for you to watch, grown-ups! It has some top tips for preparing your child. It was of course made in pre-COVID 19 times so please bear that in mind as you watch. There are still some good ideas that you will be able to do!

Remember the most important thing you can do to prepare your child for school is to have plenty of quality time together over the summer holidays - talking together, playing and reading stories to each other!