From Nursery To ‘Big School’: Supporting Your Child Through The Transition
Supporting Your Child Through The Transition
Starting school is a big milestone, not just for children, but for families too. Whether your child has just started or is preparing to start in the coming weeks, the transition from nursery to school can bring a mix of excitement, uncertainty, and plenty of emotions.
At The Early Years Academy, we know just how much love, care and effort goes into those early years, and when it's time to take that next step, many parents ask the same questions:
What should I expect?
Is my child really ready?
How can I support them without overwhelming them?
Here’s a helpful guide to what to expect and how to support your child (and yourself!) through this important chapter.
1. What to Expect in the First Few Weeks
The first weeks of school can look different for every child. Some bounce in without a second glance, while others take time to settle into the new routine. Here are a few common things to look out for:
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Tiredness – School days are longer and more structured than nursery. It’s very normal for children to be more tired or emotional after school.
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Regression – You might notice little setbacks in things like toileting, sleep, or independence. These are usually temporary.
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Big feelings – Even confident children may have wobbles once the novelty wears off. Expect some clinginess, teary mornings, or moodiness after school.
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Limited communication – “What did you do at school today?” is often answered with “nothing”. This doesn’t mean they’re not enjoying it, they’re just processing a lot.
2. Tools and Tips to Help Support Your Child
Transitioning to school is a process, not a single moment. Here are some simple yet effective ways to support your child:
Routine is Reassurance
Keep mornings and evenings as calm and predictable as possible. A visual timetable at home (e.g. breakfast, brush teeth, put on uniform, school) can help reduce anxiety and increase independence.
Focus on Practical Skills
Teachers don’t expect children to read or write before school starts – but being able to do things like:
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Put on their own coat and shoes
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Open lunchboxes or snack packets
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Use the toilet independently
...can make a world of difference in helping them feel capable and confident.
Keep Talking – But Gently
If your child doesn’t want to talk about school, don’t push. Instead, try indirect questions like:
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“What made you smile today?”
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“Did anyone sit next to you at lunch?”
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“What was the best thing you did outside?”
You can also encourage storytelling through play – children often express their feelings more freely when using toys or role play.
Stay Positive, But Honest
Let them know it’s okay to feel nervous, and that it’s normal to miss nursery and miss you. Share your own memories of school and keep conversations light, reassuring, and encouraging.
3. Support for You, Too
We know it’s not just the children who go through a transition, it’s parents too. Whether it’s your first child or your last, watching them take this step can stir up all sorts of emotions. You might feel proud, anxious, teary, or a little lost and that’s completely valid.
A few gentle reminders:
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You’ve done the hard work laying the foundation, now they’re ready to build on it.
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It’s okay if it takes a few weeks (or more) for things to settle.
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You’re not alone, talk to other parents, reach out to your child’s teacher, or speak to our team if you need support.
4. We’re Still Here For You
Although your child may have moved on from The Early Years Academy, our door is always open. Whether it’s advice, a familiar face to pop in and say hello, or simply a little reassurance, you’re part of our nursery family, and that doesn’t change.
You can also explore more resources and guidance here:
Final Thought
Starting school isn’t the end of your child’s early years journey, it’s the beginning of their next adventure. With patience, encouragement, and support, they will grow into it in their own time. And remember those early lessons in kindness, curiosity and resilience they’ve gained here at The Early Years Academy will go with them every step of the way.
