Last Updated on: 3rd August 2026, 03:52 pm

How to Prepare Yourself for Your Child Going to Reception Class

Watching your child start school and go to reception class is a huge milestone for you and your child. While we focus on settling our little ones into school, the focus on mum and dad is often forgotten. It is extremely important that you remember to put yourself first sometimes, and emotionally, you will need to do that at this time. Whether you are proud, nervous, excited or anxious, these feelings are all normal for parents and carers. Seeing your child (or grandchild) start reception class is a whole new adventure for the whole family. So, with some tips in this article for when your child starts school, you will hopefully find the transition a little bit easier.

Accept That Mixed Emotions Are Normal

Many parents think they will be really happy to see their kids go off to reception class. But then find themselves bawling their eyes out for a week before school starts. This is a perfectly natural feeling because you are dealing with so many different worries for your child and yourself. You might feel worried, scared, sad and excited all at the same time. Your child might not feel like your baby anymore as they become more independent by the day. And while this is something to be happy about, it also feels like a chapter in your life is closing and another is about to start. You need to allow yourself some time to grieve for the end of the chapter without feeling guilty.

Build Confidence in Your Child’s Independence

Reception teachers are there to make your child welcome in their new school. They will help to make your child feel welcome, and they will guide them for their first year at school. You need to trust your own feelings and know that you can trust the teacher to help your child settle down. Once you build up your child’s confidence with the teacher, it will help you to build your own confidence up. Help them be independent at home; this will help you both. It will help your child learn to do things on their own, whilst helping you to slowly let go of your child for school.

Visit The School A Few Times Together Before Your Child Starts School

The more you visit the school, the more you will feel ready to let them go. You will see their excitement after every visit and know you are doing the right thing. Walking the school route, or driving it for a few days before school starts, will help you to prepare for the first week at school. Because the more you do the school run, the less daunting the first day will feel.

Reception teachers have welcomed hundreds of children into school over the years. They understand that some children settle immediately while others take a little longer. If your child cries at drop-off, remember that this is very common. Most children stop crying within minutes once they become engaged with classroom activities. Trust the staff to comfort and support them.

Start A New Routine Before School Starts

A few weeks before school starts, you need to start adding a new bedtime routine. This will help you to prepare mentally and physically for the day your child starts school. Practice the new routine, like getting dressed, eating breakfast together and waking up at a set time. Getting into this routine will help reduce stress and make the mornings run much smoother, especially in those first few weeks.

Try Not To Pass On Your Worries

Children often pick up on their parents’ emotions. If they see you are worried, then they become worried too. Try to talk about school in a positive and fun way. Focus on exciting opportunities such as making new friends, reading stories, playing outside and learning new things. Even if you’re nervous inside, a calm and cheerful attitude can help your child feel confident.

Meet Other Parents In The Same Situation

Starting Reception is a fresh start for parents as well as kids. Getting to know other parent by chatting to them at drop off or pick up times will help you to build a support network there. Some lifelong friendships between kids and parents begin at the school gates. And you will know that the other parents will be going through the same feelings as you.

Plan Something For Yourself

When you have waved goodbye to your child on the first morning, meet a friend for coffee. Or tackle a project you’ve been putting off for some time. This will keep you busy and your mind will be occupied whilst they do the first morning. The last thing you want to do is sit and worry at home. You could even start a little college course or look for a volenteer job in a charity shop near you.

Be Prepared for Tired Children

Reception class can be exhausting. Your child may come home full of energy one day and completely worn out the next. They may also become more emotional than usual as they adjust to their new routine. But you might also feel the effects of emotional tiredness, it can be draining with all of the feelings you will feel in the first week. Give your child, and yourself plenty of reassurance, allow time for rest and keep evenings fairly relaxed during the first few weeks.

Keep Communication Open And Celebrate Small Milestones

Ask gentle questions about your child’s day rather than expecting a full account. Many children struggle to remember what they’ve done or simply don’t feel like talking straight away.Questions such as “What made you smile today?” or “Who did you play with?” often encourage more conversation than asking, “What did you do today?” The first full week, making a new friend, learning to write their name, or proudly bringing home their first piece of artwork are all moments worth celebrating. Recognising these achievements helps both you and your child see how much they’re growing in confidence.

Remember That Settling Takes Time

Every child settles in to school differently. Some settle within days, while others may need a few weeks longer before they feel completely comfortable. This doesn’t mean anything is wrong, it just means they are different. Stay patient, maintain consistent routines and work with your child’s teacher if you have any concerns.

Look After Yourself Too When Your Child Starts School

Parenting doesn’t stop once the school gates close. Give yourself time to adjust to this new phase of family life. Stay connected with friends, make time for your hobbies and remember that your wellbeing matters too. The happier and calmer you feel, the more reassurance you’ll naturally give your child.

The Start Of The New Adventure When Your Child Starts School

Your child’s first day in reception is a significant milestone that marks the beginning of many exciting adventures. While it’s natural to feel emotional, remember that you’re helping your child take an important step towards becoming confident, independent and curious. Trust yourself, trust the school and trust your child. Before long, the school run will become part of your everyday routine, and you’ll both look back proudly at how far you’ve come. The first day may feel like a big leap, but it’s also the start of an exciting journey filled with learning, friendships and unforgettable memories.

For Blog posts about teenagers at school, pop over here.