Preparing your child for their first day at school
The first day of school is a milestone filled with excitement, anticipation, and—naturally—a few nerves, both for children and their families. At Broomfield House School, we understand how important these early days are. A positive, supported start to school can set the tone for a child’s entire learning journey. There are simple, nurturing steps you can take over the summer to help them feel confident and ready for the September start.
1. Talk Positively About School
Young children take their emotional cues from the adults around them. If you speak about school with enthusiasm and positivity, your child is likely to feel the same way. Share stories about what they will do at school—making new friends, playing outside, exploring books, painting, singing songs, and learning exciting things.
2. Build Independence in Small Steps
Helping your child become more independent can ease the transition to school life. Simple routines like putting on their own shoes, hanging up their coat, or tidying up toys give children a sense of autonomy and confidence. Practise using a knife and fork and asking for help when needed. These little skills make a big difference.
3. Establish a Predictable Routine
Practise the morning routine: getting dressed, having breakfast, brushing teeth, and heading out the door at a similar time each day. Children thrive on predictability, and having a familiar rhythm in place helps them adjust more easily when school begins.
4. Encourage Play-Based Learning
At Broomfield, play is at the heart of learning in the Early Years. You can support this at home by offering open-ended play opportunities. Whether it is building with blocks, drawing, playing with dolls or role-playing being a teacher or doctor, these activities help children develop communication, cooperation, and creative thinking—all essential for school readiness.
5. Read Together Every Day
Storytime is not only a wonderful bonding experience, but also a powerful tool for language development. Reading aloud helps children build vocabulary, understand emotions, and learn how stories work. Let your child choose the books and encourage them to talk about what they see and hear.
6. Visit the School Environment
If possible, make a few informal visits to Broomfield before term starts—walk past the gates. Familiarity with the surroundings helps children feel more secure on their first day. If a visit is not possible, show them photos of the school and staff in our transition booklet, or explore the school website together.
Looking Ahead with Confidence
At Broomfield House, we are committed to ensuring each child feels welcomed and supported from the moment they walk through our doors. Starting school is a big step, but with gentle preparation and lots of encouragement, it can be a wonderful experience.
We look forward to welcoming you and your little ones to Broomfield in September.
