When your child first starts school it is a big change in your family life. You will be trying to support them while at the same time feeling just as nervous as - if not more nervous than - your little one.

Below are some hints and tips for making the transition a little easier. 

Helping your child

We don't expect children to arrive in Robins able to write their name or read; we are here to teach them how to do that. The best way to prepare your child is to talk positively about school, maybe get some books from the library about starting school and read them together. 

Help your child develop skills to support their independence. Things like taking their coat and shoes on and off, looking after their possessions, using the toilet confidently and washing their hands will all give them a sense of independence that will help in their first few weeks of school. 

Help your child feel confident. Let them know that it is OK to let a teacher know if they need to go to the toilet or are feeling a bit unsure about something. 

Home Visits

Before the summer holidays we carry out home visits, these are currently carried out via Zoom. Visits last about 10 minutes and are a lovely opportunity for your child and Miss Spencer to get to know each other. Your child can show Miss Spencer their favourite toy, the garden and talk about their family. It is also the perfect time for you to ask any questions you have about school. 

Their first day

To help you talk to your child about their first day in Robins, here is a general timetable of how the day will go. 

• 08.30 - Arrive at school and come to the playground. Miss Spencer and the Early Years team will meet you there. 
• Miss Spencer and the team will take the Robins inside and help them with their coats, bags and water bottles. 
• 09.00 - Carpet time.  We will do the morning register, introduce ourselves and sort out name badges. 
• Morning - We will read stories, explore the Robins garden, and do some painting. 
• Lunch in the hall.  
• Afternoon - We will continue with our morning activities.
• 15.00 - Please come to the playground (where you dropped off) to collect your child. We will send them out to you one at a time. 

Early Years Team