Starting School in September: Easing the Transition and Surviving the First Term

September is a big month for little ones (and their parents). That first day of school can feel like the start of a whole new chapter - full of excitement, nerves, and a hundred unanswered questions.

As a parent, you might be wondering: Will they make friends? Will they manage lunch? How will we cope with the long days? Having supported families through children starting school for decades, I want to share some gentle tips to help you and your child settle into this new adventure.

Prepare, but keep it light

Talk about school in positive, simple terms. Visit the playground if you can, read picture books about starting school, and practice little routines like putting on shoes or opening a lunchbox. Avoid overloading them with too much information - sometimes less is more.

Keep mornings calm

A predictable morning routine will help your child feel secure. Lay out clothes the night before, prepare bags in advance, and build in extra time so you’re not rushing. Your calm energy will set the tone for their day.

Expect extreme tiredness

The first term can be exhausting. Even children who love school may come home grumpy, clingy, or quiet. Keep afternoons low-key with snacks, cuddles, and quiet play. Avoid packing the weekends with too much activity - they’ll need downtime.

Starting school and staying connected

Create a small ritual to bridge home and school - a special hug, a “secret” hand squeeze, or a little note in their lunchbox. These moments remind your child they’re loved and safe, even when you’re apart.

Work with the teachers

Teachers are your allies. Share anything that might help them support your child, and trust that they’ve helped many children settle before. Open, respectful communication goes a long way.

Look after yourself too

Your emotions matter. It’s normal to feel wobbly at drop-off, but try to save tears for after they’ve gone inside. Connect with other parents - a friendly chat can make all the difference in those early weeks.

Starting school is not a test - it’s a process. Some children race in with a smile, others take weeks or terms to settle, and both are perfectly normal. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s helping your child feel safe, valued, and ready to learn at their own pace.

By the end of the first term, you’ll likely be amazed at how much they’ve grown - and how much you have too.

Email to book a free, 15 minute discovery call hello@miennajones.com

Let’s change the story. For you. For your team. For the children.

Mienna Jones, Championing Childhood

📞 Call us: 07359 380484

📧 Email us: hello@miennajones.com

🌐 Visit: www.miennajones.com

📰 Join our mailing list: Sign up here