A Guide to Transitioning from Nursery to Primary School

The first day at school is one of life’s great milestones. Seeing them in their uniform is a proud moment, but the weeks leading up to it can throw up a lot of questions for parents and carers.

At our day nursery in Exeter, we take steps to ensure children are as ready as possible for their transition into primary school. Here’s some of our favourite advice to help parents and their little ones enjoy that first day with as little stress as possible.

What is the Transition from Nursery to Primary School Like?

Your little one moving from nursery to primary school is a big change for them, and a different experience from when they first started nursery.

Toddlers often need help preparing to start nursery, as it can be their first time away from their parents for an extended period, as well as their first time being surrounded by other children. While nursery prepares them for some aspects of primary school, reception brings some additional new experiences, such as:

• A larger environment, with more people and different places.
• A more structured day, with set times for classes, play and lunch.
• More independence and personal responsibility.

With this in mind, it really helps your little one to start thinking about what primary school will be like well in advance of their first day, just as you did when taking them to nursery for the first time.

How to Support Children Moving from Nursery to Primary

There are lots of things you can do to ensure your child is ready for their first day at primary school, from big things like visiting the school to smaller ones like reading books about starting school.

Most nurseries, including ours, will work to ensure all children are ready for their first day by introducing certain aspects of primary school into nursery life. This can be things like adding more structure to the nursery day or encouraging their independence through small acts, such as everyone looking after their own lunch boxes.

If you feel like your child could do with more support ahead of their first day at primary school, here are some small things you can do at home:

1. Visit the School – Many schools offer taster or transition sessions; these are great for allowing your little one to experience the new environment in a slow and steady way.
2. Use Books and Stories – There are many booklets out there to help children understand what school is like. You can also discuss and roleplay scenarios (such as what to do if they need help) with your child.
3. Encourage Independence – Get your little one practising basic self-care, such as putting on their coat and shoes by themselves or tidying up after playtime.
4. Meet Classmates – Whether moving with other children from the nursery or not, try to organise playdates so they have familiar faces when they start school. Playdates are also great for practising playground etiquette, such as letting other kids go first.
5. Practice Routines – Try to get your child used to the kind of routine they’ll have when school starts, including regular bedtimes and mealtimes.

Remember, as with many things in a child’s early life, they will always be looking to you for guidance. So, one of the best things you can do is try not to be too nervous yourself about their first day. Every child is in the same boat, and the more you can promote school as a fun and exciting part of growing up, the happier and more confident they’ll be on that first day.

If you have any special concerns about your child starting primary school, it’s often best to reach out to the school before the first day. You can also speak to your nursery, who may be able to offer more personal advice related to your child’s needs.