Starting primary school

Starting primary school is a big event in every child’s life, and in every parent’s life, too. It’s a big change that’s exciting and a bit scary. Even if your child went to the school nursery or has other friends starting they might still be nervous. This is a big day for everyone, but don’t worry, their new teacher will be focused on helping your child settle in. And there are things you can do to get them ready so they have a happy first day.

Jump to a section in this article

Tips from a head teacher

Starting school is really exciting, but it can also be a bit scary! In this short film, head teacher Kevin Brack has practical tips and advice on what you can do to make going into P1 a really special, positive experience.

What is my child’s nursery doing to help prepare them?

All nurseries and ELC settings will have plans in place to help your wee one make the transition to primary school. These will differ depending on your setting, so talk to your child’s nursery to see what they are doing or have planned.

What is my child’s new school doing to help them prepare them?

All schools will have plans in place to help new children settle into P1, but these will differ from school to school. Some schools may be inviting children to come in for a visit before they start, while others may be using videos and online chats. Get in touch with your child’s new school to find out what the options are.

Should my child know their ABCs and 123s before school?

While it’s natural to worry about things like reading and number skills when your child is starting school, there’s no reason to stress about these right now. No one expects you to be a teacher to prepare them for their first day – you’re already doing the most amazing job in the world. And all the little things you do, like playing, enjoying books, pictures and stories together, are great for getting them ready for school. It might help to think about all the other great skills your little one is getting to grips with, like having independence, taking turns and sharing. These will all help your child settle in and they will learn lots of other new skills once they step into the classroom.

Remember that all children learn in their own time, at their own pace, and their teacher will support your little one to do just that.

Photo of a child writing with coloured pencils

Tips for helping your child prepare for primary school

Tip #1: Tell them all about it

Talking to your child about their new school and telling them about it can help them to feel more settled. Make sure they know the name of the school and their teacher’s name. Tell them what they can expect on the first day. You could even tell them about what you remember from your first day.

Tip #2: Encourage independence

Being able to get dressed, have lunch and go to the toilet by themselves are important skills to have when they’re at school but don’t worry if they can’t yet do it all on their own, you can help them practise in small steps; maybe socks one day, coat and shoes the next. Although remember to let them know that they can always ask their teacher if there’s anything they need help with.

Tip #3: Show them their name

They might not be used to seeing their name written down. Teach them what their name looks like, as their own spaces in the class and cloakrooms might be labelled with their name.

Tip #4: Talk to them

They might be wee, but they will have their own thoughts and worries about starting school. Ask them what they’re excited about and tell them what you remember about school (focusing on the good things of course!).

Tip #5: Have a dry run

Take them for a walk to their school. This will help them get used to the trip they’ll be making each day and give them a better idea of what to expect.

Tip #6: Keep a routine

Even if your child has been going to nursery, going to school every day is a bit different. Keep their bedtime and morning routines consistent in the lead up to starting school and it might make the transition easier.

Tip #7: Be excited

Your child picks up on your emotions so be happy and excited about them starting. These positive feelings will rub off on them and help get them look forward to the big day.

Tip #8: Make sure and ask them all about their day

Once they've started, ask what their favourite thing was, and what they didn’t like so much. Ask them what they’re looking forward to tomorrow, and help keep them positive about the new change.

Tip #9: Let them play

Children learn and develop through play, and letting them work through their new experiences will help them get used to their new school life. Learn more on supporting your child through play on this page and explore our games you can play to get your child ready to start school page.

Triplets heading off to school carrying school bags

If you have twins, triplets or more

If you have twins, triplets or more ('multiples'), you can find lots of tips on the Twins Trust website to help prepare your children to start school. You’ll also find advice to help you decide whether you should separate them or not when they go to school.

If your child has additional support needs

A child is said to have ‘additional support needs’ if, for any reason, they need more, or different support to what is normally provided in schools to children of the same age. There are many reasons why children and young people may need support to help them learn. Our page on supporting children with additional support needs has further information on what you can do and where you can get help and advice if you think your child needs some extra support at school.