You’ve got the primary school spot you’ve been looking for and have just sent in your acceptance letter. What can you do right now to prepare your child for elementary school? As well as getting a little nervous and excited that your little one is soon going to meet new people heading out on outdoor adventure school trips, and starting their educational journey there are some ways you can make sure that they are prepared for starting.
Let’s have a look at some of the ways you can get your children ready for starting primary school:
Encourage Independence
Reception Children will be expected to know the fundamentals of self-care. Encourage your youngster to dress independently, address buttons, zips, and remove and put on jackets. They should also be able to eat with a knife, fork, and spoon on their own and go to the toilet on their own. If your children aren’t in this position yet, start now to get them ready in time.
For example, you could start getting them to practice getting dressed each morning or even create a game that helps them practice getting changed from the school uniform into their PE kit and back again. Set a timer and see how quickly they can put on their shoes and coat.
Teach Them How To Make Friends
This is beneficial to youngsters. Those who have attended pre-school or a nursery will be socially adept, so encourage your child to talk to other children at play sessions or in the park, and bring young friends around for play dates. A great way to do this is to encourage them to make friends and talk about their friends from preschool or get them to make friends at the local park by asking if they can join in a game.
Develop Speaking And Listening Skills
School children are required to listen to their teachers without interrupting them and to respond when spoken to. Prepare your child for ‘circle time,’ which is a time when the instructor and class get together every day to discuss themes, by practising at home. Make your own ‘circle time’ with siblings – or use teddies and dolls – and encourage family conversations at the dinner table, taking turns listening and speaking.
Make Sure They Recognise Their Name
Some children will already be able to read simple words when they enter Reception, while others will be complete beginners. Your kid must recognise their name so that they can pick up the correct name-labelled uniform or jacket, as well as locate their drawer in the classroom. Explore the letters of your child’s name with them and assist them in writing their name.
Be Enthusiastic About School
Children’s attitudes toward school can differ greatly. Some can’t wait to get started, while others find it difficult to leave their parents for the day. Begin today to assist your child look forward to school by talking about it excitedly. Visit the classroom, enjoy other students’ artwork and projects, and talk positively about what your child will be doing and who they will meet.
These tips should help you to start getting your little one ready for their first day at primary school. Have you accepted your school place already? Are you excited? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.