Starting school is a very exciting milestone. It brings new adventures, friendships and routines. At Embley, we work hard to ensure that starting school is a positive and enjoyable experience, supporting both children and parents through any nerves or uncertainties along the way. If your child is starting Reception in September, here are a few simple ways to help them feel confident and ready for this exciting next step
Introducing a few gentle routines can help your child feel secure, confident and prepared to embrace their new learning environment. Children thrive on predictability and small, consistent habits can make a meaningful difference to how they approach each day.
- Establish morning routines - Creating simple, consistent habits can help bring a sense of calm to the day. Try waking up at a similar time each weekday, getting dressed and having breakfast in a familiar order or encouraging your child to brush teeth and wash their hands with increasing independence.
- Encourage tidy up time - Small responsibilities such as putting toys away, carrying their own bag and helping with small household tasks can help children feel valued and included. These activities also support the development of independence and responsibility.
- Practise snack and mealtime routines – Keeping mealtimes relaxed and predictable can help children feel comfortable and capable. Encourage your child to open simple packets, drink from their own water bottle, sit at a table for snacks and practise using cutlery independently.
- Build confidence with everyday tasks – As children do more for themselves, their confidence naturally grows and, with encouragement and practice, they can often achieve more than we expect. Support your child in using the toilet independently, washing and drying their hands, putting on their shoes and coat, blowing their nose and practising fastening zips and buttons.
- Talk positively about starting school – Even the most confident children may feel a mixture of excitement and uncertainty about starting school. Take time to talk about their feelings, use positive language, read stories about school and use play to explore what a school day might look like. Encourage questions and help build confidence gradually by focusing on the exciting opportunities ahead.
Applications are now open for Reception class places for September 2027
