Tips for parents: new school starters + childcare and kindy kids!

Starting at childcare, kindergarten or school can be a daunting prospect, for both parents and child! The Psychologists from the Paediatric Sleep & Psychology Clinic (Incorporating Sensible Sleep) have put together a list of tips for parents and families to help prepare them.

Starting at childcare, kindergarten or school can be a daunting prospect, for both parents and child!

Even the most relaxed child is likely to feel nervous about the new environment and separating from parents and caregivers. The Psychologists from the Paediatric Sleep & Psychology Clinic have put together a list of tips for parents and families to help prepare them.

tips for parents with kids starting school

CHILDCARE

  • Talk about childcare and read books like ‘Benjamin Comes Back’ by Amy Brandt & Janice Lee Porter
  • Pack a security object (teddy/blanket/something familiar from home that your child can use to soothe themselves)
  • Arrive a bit early so that your departure is not rushed, and you can calmly settle them in
  • Try to engage your child in an activity, then leave (but NEVER sneak away. Always say goodbye so that your child knows you are leaving)
  • Foster a relationship between your child and one of the childcare workers so that they can assist you at drop-offs
  • Try to stay calm, relaxed and confident yourself so that you are not communicating any anxiety or concern to your child
  • Speak with the carers to gain their insights about how your child is adjusting to the change, and if they are upset after you leave, how long for and what helps to calm them down

STARTING KINDERGARTEN & SCHOOL

  • It is absolutely normal for a child to feel worried about starting at kindergarten or school. Allow them to understand that it is ok to feel worried. It is what a child can do about it that will be helpful.
  • Arrive a bit early so the drop-off can be calm, and you can calmly settle them in
  • Try to stay calm, relaxed and confident yourself so that you are not communicating any anxiety or concern to your child
  • Empower your child with strategies to help them with their nerves:
    o Talk about what is going to happen when they arrive at kindy or school, what the routine is likely to be, so they know what to expect.
    o Make a plan for what the child can do if they are feeling very worried, e.g. speak to the teacher, find a friend, go to the library and read a book
    o Make a happy book of things that make the child smile (pictures of mum or the dog, a funny riddle or crazy picture) that the child can look at when they are sad.
    o Give the child a small ‘special’ object like a small rock that they can have in their pocket, and have one yourself. Talk about how the child can hold their special object if they are feeling worried, and that you will also have your special object so that you are still connected and thinking of each other. There is a booked called ‘The invisible string’ by Patrice Karst which also talks about this connection between parent & child.
    o Work out how long it is before the child is picked up to go home and have a list which the child can cross off the times, counting down the hours.
    o Congratulate a child for trying any of these ideas.
    o At the moment you separate (say goodbye) point them towards your next connection (e.g. I am going now, and I can’t wait to see you again later today!) then calmly and confidently leave.

sensiblesleep.com

You may also like

A mother and child walk hand in hand towards a school.

Preparing your child for school: Complete readiness checklist

February 25, 2026

Is your child ready to start school? Starting school is a big milestone, but how do you know if your child is ready? It’s not just about age. Emotional, social, and developmental factors are key. To help you make this important decision, we’ve created the ultimate school readiness checklist, giving you a clear guide on whether your child is prepared for their school journey. The ultimate school readiness checklist Emotional readiness Can they manage separation?Can your child say goodbye with minimal tears or tantrums? This emotional independence is crucial for school success. Can they handle frustration?How do they cope when things don’t go as planned? The ability to manage emotions and keep trying is important for school readiness. Social skills Can they make and keep friends?Feeling comfortable interacting with others, sharing, and taking turns is vital. Do they understand basic social rules?Saying “please” and “thank you,” waiting their turn, and respecting personal space are essential in the classroom. Communication skills Can they express their needs clearly?Whether asking to use the bathroom or requesting help, clear communication is key. Can they follow instructions?Understanding simple directions like “put your shoes away” is important for school readiness. Physical development Can they dress and care for themselves?Independence in tasks like putting on a jacket or managing a lunch box helps them feel more in control. Are they physically active?Coordination and energy to run, jump, and hold a pencil are important for learning and play. Cognitive skills Can they focus for short periods?Attention span is essential for learning, so if they can focus on a task for a few minutes, they’re on track. Do they recognise basic concepts?Recognising their name, shapes, colours, and some letters or numbers is a good school foundation. Independence Can they make choices?Deciding on simple things, like what to wear, builds confidence and autonomy. Do they understand routines?Familiarity with daily routines at home makes it easier to adjust to school schedules. Every child develops at their own pace, so don’t worry if they don’t tick every box yet. If they’re not quite ready, there are plenty of ways to support them at home, like practicing social skills or reading together, to help them build confidence for when the time is right.   Follow KIDDO on Instagram and Facebook, and subscribe to our weekly newsletter

Read More
Educate Issue #10 OUT NOW

EDUCATE Issue #10 – OUT NOW

February 19, 2026

Creativity is one of those words we all nod along to, we know it matters, we want it for our children, and yet it can feel surprisingly hard to define, protect, or prioritise in a busy school life.

Read More
Load More