Starting Primary School: A Parent’s Guide to Feeling Ready

Starting school is a big moment—for your child and for you.

At The Fruit Tree Day Nursery, we’ve walked this road with hundreds of families. And we get it—one minute you’re packing lunch for nursery, the next you’re buying school uniforms and getting emotional at the thought of waving goodbye at the school gate.

Whether you’re feeling excited, nervous, or somewhere in between—you’re not alone.

Here’s how to make the transition from nursery to primary school feel a little smoother for everyone.

Bright and inviting, the empty classroom is perfectly arranged with colourful materials, eagerly awaiting the students' for a new school year.

Let’s Start With You

Children pick up on our energy more than we realise. If you’re calm and confident (even if you’re faking it a little), your child will feel safer and more ready.

Try this:

• Chat with other parents going through the same thing

• Visit the school early—many offer play sessions or open days

• Walk or drive the school route together and make it familiar

• Learn about drop-off routines, lunch, and pick-up times

You're stepping into a new season too, and that's something to acknowledge and embrace.

What Does “School Ready” Really Mean?

It’s easy to feel pressure around reading levels or maths skills—but school readiness is much more about independence and confidence.

Here’s what really matters:

• Can they use the toilet by themselves?

• Can they ask for help?

• Can they get changed for PE?

• Can they sit for a short time and focus?

• Do they recognise their name?

These things build over time. No one expects perfection on day one.

Let them practise in fun ways. Try roleplay, let them dress themselves, and keep chats about school casual and relaxed.

Students gather on colourful mats for a creative circle time activity led by their teacher, involving paper folding and discussion.

Help Them Feel Familiar With School

Big changes feel less scary when they’re familiar.

In the weeks before school starts, you can:

• Walk past the school regularly

• Talk positively about what school will be like

• Go to any induction events your school offers

• Introduce them to classmates if you can

• Let them explore their uniform and backpack at home

These small things build trust and excitement—and they really help.

What You Actually Need to Buy for Primary School

You don’t need to go overboard.

Stick to the basics:

• 2 full school uniforms

• Shoes they can put on themselves

• PE kit and a drawstring bag

• Coat with a hood

• Lunchbox, water bottle, and small backpack

• Book bag

• Extra underwear, socks, and a summer hat

• Name labels for everything

Let them pick their backpack or bottle—something small that makes it theirs.

A vibrant orange backpack filled with colorful pencils, notebooks, and scissors, ready for a day of learning at school.

Thinking About Childcare and Costs?

Starting school might mean nursery fees stop—but before and after-school care is still something to plan for.

Look into:

• Breakfast clubs and after-school programs

• Tax-Free Childcare or Universal Credit

• 30 hours of childcare (some families still qualify)

• Support from your local council

Wraparound care fills the gaps for working families. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.

Morning and Evening Routines That Actually Work

Children love routine—it gives them a sense of security. And let’s be honest, it helps mornings run more smoothly too.

Before school:

• Wake up with time to spare

• Have a calm breakfast

• Use a visual checklist (get dressed, brush teeth, pack bag)

• Leave at the same time each day

After school:

• Offer a snack and some downtime

• Let them talk about their day on their own terms

• Keep bedtime consistent—school is exhausting at first

Routines don’t need to be rigid. Just predictable.

The First Day of School: What to Expect

Every school does things a bit differently. Some stagger start times or ease children in gradually. Others go straight into full days.

Here’s what helps:

• Keep your goodbye short and confident

• Don’t sneak off—it’s better to be honest

• Try to stick to your usual routine

• Take a photo, soak in the moment—you only get one first day

• And yes, it’s okay to cry (for both of you)

This is a big moment, and it’s okay to feel all the feelings.

A child steps confidently through the school gates, ready to begin a new day of learning with a backpack in hand.

What If Your Child Has Special Educational Needs or Disabilities?

Every child deserves to start school feeling safe and supported.

If your child has SEND:

• Get in touch with the school’s SENCo early

• Visit the school together before the term starts

• Talk openly about your child’s strengths and needs

• Build relationships with the teachers and staff

• Know your rights and any EHC plans in place

• Practise routines at home to help with transitions

You are your child’s best advocate, and schools are there to work with you.

A Few Extra Resources

• BBC Bitesize: Starting Primary School

• Childcare Choices – Government Help

• Book: Starting School by Janet and Allan Ahlberg

You’ve Got This

This next step is big—but also beautiful.

At The Fruit Tree Day Nursery, we’re here to walk alongside you as your child grows, learns, and steps confidently into the world of school.

If you ever want to talk things through, we’re only a phone call or doorstep away.

You’re doing better than you think. And your child is going to shine.

Children enthusiastically prepare for a new school day, their faces glowing with excitement and anticipation.