How To Support Your Child As They Prepare For Prep
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Starting school is a major milestone for children and families. Whether your child is full of questions, nervous about leaving home, or just excited to use their new backpack, your support is key. A confident and positive start can help spark a lifelong love of learning.
Here are some considerations to make the transition to Prep calmer, and more joyful for everyone.
Talk About What to Expect
Children feel more confident when they know what’s coming. Talk about the first day, what a classroom looks like, and the kinds of activities they’ll do.
Try chatting about:
What a school day might involve, like playing, reading, lunch, and pack-up time
How to make new friends
Your own happy memories from school
Keep it casual. The goal is to make school feel normal, safe, and even fun.
Read With Your Child Every Day
Reading together is one of the most effective ways to prepare your child for school. It helps with language development, focus, curiosity, and connection.
Daily reading:
Builds vocabulary and comprehension
Encourages a love of books
Sparks questions and conversations
Helps children understand emotions and the world around them
Ask open-ended questions like:
“What do you think will happen next?”
“How is this character feeling?”
“What was your favourite part?”
Build Independence Step by Step
Prep teachers understand that every child starts at a different level. Still, helping your child feel capable in small ways makes a big difference.
Practice things like:
Opening and closing their lunchbox
Putting on socks and shoes
Using the toilet by themselves
Following simple instructions
Carrying their own bag
Start setting up morning and evening routines now so that school days feel familiar when they begin.
Support Their Wellbeing
Starting school can bring a mix of emotions, including excitement, nervousness, or even sadness. Children may not always have the words to express how they feel.
You can help by:
Talking openly about feelings
Showing them how and who to ask for help
Making time for rest both before school starts and during those early weeks
Let them know that all feelings are valid and that support is always available.
Celebrate the Milestone
Starting Prep is a big moment. Celebrating it helps build confidence and shows your child that this new chapter is something to be proud of.
Simple ways to celebrate:
Count down the days together
Take a first-day photo
Have a special breakfast or family dinner to mark the occasion
It doesn’t have to be a big event. A small celebration can go a long way in making the day feel exciting and positive.
Connect With Your School Community
This is a new beginning for your whole family. Building relationships with other families and staff can make the experience more enjoyable and less stressful.
Try:
Attending school events or orientation sessions
Spending time in your child’s learning environment
Helping out at the tuckshop, library, or uniform shop
Saying hello to other parents at pick-up or drop-off
You’ll feel more supported, and so will your child.
Stay Positive and Be Patient
Every child adjusts at their own pace. Some may dive right in, while others take time to settle.
Keep in mind:
Be positive, even if your child is feeling unsure
Offer lots of encouragement
Stick to routines for comfort and stability
Create time to relax and recharge after school
If you have concerns, talk to the teacher. They are there to help and can offer valuable support and advice.
You don’t need to get everything right. What matters most is showing up with patience, encouragement, and care. Prep year is about more than just schoolwork. It’s about growing confidence, independence, and connection.
Rebecca Broadfoot
Speech and Language Pathologist