Starting primary school - easy read

Top 10 tips for parents and families

Read them below or download them here

1) Visit the school

The school should send you a letter inviting you to visit.

It is good to visit the school with your child before they start so you both know what to expect.

If you do not get a letter. Phone the school.

The school will arrange for you and your child to visit.

2) Getting to school

Make sure that you and your child get up in time to get ready for school. It is good to have a routine.

It can take a long time to get ready for school in the morning.

Make sure there is enough time to have breakfast and get to school without rushing.

3) Keep calm

Your child may start to act like a toddler again.

This can be common for children starting school.

Your child may be worried about school.

Give them a cuddle and tell them that you will help them.

4) Show interest

Talk to your child about their day. Check their bag for letters and homework.

Ask them what they like about school. This will help them tell you if there is anything they are sad or scared about.

5) After school

For young children a full day at school can make them feel tired.

Your child may show this by being grumpy or quiet when they get home.

Give them a drink and a snack. Let them relax. Read them a story and have a cuddle.

6) Encourage your child

Praise your child when they have done well or worked hard. This helps them to feel good about themselves.

If they have done something that you do not like, speak to them about it. Talk to them about what they can do to put it right.

Remember to tell them that you love them.

7) Spend time together

Try to do something together everyday. Think of something you both enjoy.

Just watching their favourite TV programme, reading a book together or talking to them about school.

Even helping around the house can be fun if you do it together.

8) Play together

Playing is very important, it helps your child learn new things.

It also helps them to talk and listen.

It helps them to learn how to get along with other people and make friends.

9) Talk to the teacher

Go to parents evenings. You will find out how your child is getting on. Let the teacher know if you have any worries about your child.

Go to other school meetings.

You can find out what is happening in school and meet other parents. It shows your child and the school that you are interested.

10) Look after yourself

Have people to talk to.

Parents sometimes need help. It is ok to ask for help.

Spend time doing things you enjoy.

Look after yourself as well as your child.