Advice and resources : The journey to school

Roadmaps

The following information is also available as a PDF information sheet that you can download here:

Develop independence

Support your child to:

• get dressed independently (practise closing buttons, putting on socks and shoes, doing up zips, etc.).
• go to the toilet and wipe their bottom on their own.
• cut food using a knife and fork.
• tidy up their toys.
• recognise their name in writing (create a named coat peg at home) and to consistently respond to it verbally.

• Explore more advice about developing independence

Prepare them for the routines

• In the lead up to starting school, try to get up at the same time each day, and have meals and bedtime at regular times.
• Support your child to brush their teeth twice per day and visit the dentist regularly.
• Look up and travel the school route and point when you pass. Talk to them positively about starting school.
• Find out the school meal choices and allow your child to choose a meal they like.
• Buy school uniform early and let your child get used to wearing it in the summer holidays.
• Allow your child to choose their lunch box or water bottle and become familiar with them before starting school.

Develop their interest in stories, words, sounds, and numbers

• Explore rhyming words.
• Include a bedtime story in their routine (turn pages together and look at the pictures).
• Talk to your child in your home language.
• Follow your child’s interests.
• Discuss what you see, hear, feel, smell, and taste.
• Count, sort, and measure in everyday activities.

Practice creativity and sharing

Follow your child’s lead and do activities they enjoy, such as drawing, painting, or mark-making, but also prepare them for the classroom by practicing turn-taking.

Try to limit screen time each day, especially at night. Screen time can be very exciting and engaging for children but can be addictive and stop children being as curious and creative as they are when screens are not around. Explore nature and get out in the fresh air.

Supporting a child with additional needs and/or disabilities

Consider doing the following to support your child’s transition into school:

• communicate with the school Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO) and arrange transition visits and a home visit with class teacher if possible.
• show your child photos of the new class teacher, classroom, and play areas.
• ensure your child’s Early Years setting has shared a ‘transition report’ or ‘one-page profile’ with the school.

Further information

If you have any concerns, please contact your Health Visiting or School Nursing Team.

Health Visiting: 07312 263 283

School Nursing: 07312 263 194

Local authority support

Check your local authority's directory to find further support for your child.

• Visit the Bracknell Forest Council Local Directory
• Visit the Reading Borough Council Directory
• Visit the Slough Family Services Guide
• Visit the West Berkshire Directory
• Visit the Windsor and Maidenhead Achieving for Children Directory
• Visit the Wokingham Borough Council Directory