School readiness
Starting School This September?
Starting school can sometimes feel scary as a parent, especially if this is your child’s first time in an education setting. You want to ensure your little one is ready for the next big step. But what does that mean in practice?
At Hounslow Council, we are committed to ensuring all children get a good start in school and supporting them to reach their full potential. We can provide a range of resources and advice to support you, and there are some important things for you to think about as a parent or carer. Below are a few quick steps you can take to ensure your child starts school happy, healthy and ready to learn.
1. Is my child registered with a dentist, and are we brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste?
Oral health is a growing issue amongst young children, and good habits start early! Make sure you’re brushing in the morning and before bed and minimising sugary foods and drinks. It’s a good time to start thinking about what you might put in your child’s lunchbox if you’re doing packed lunches.
2. Are we starting to establish a regular bedtime and morning routine, so we can be ready to go in time for the school bell?
Between ages 3 and 5 years, children need at least 11 hours sleep to support their brain development. Adjusting mealtimes and wake-up time to match the school day can be a good idea.
3. Is my little one dry during the day?
It isn’t part of the school’s role to toilet train your child, so it is important to make sure they are able to use the bathroom independently before they start school. But it’s okay if they still need a little reminder to wash their hands!
4. Am I up to date on childhood immunisations?
Schools are wonderful places to make friends, but playing together can mean bugs get passed round easily. It is really important to make sure your child has had all their routine childhood immunisations before they are 1 year old. Additionally, please keep them up to date with their annual flu vaccine if they are eligible.
Measles is a growing issue amongst small children and can have significant impacts, including hospitalisation. Getting the MMR immunisation is the best way to tackle this and keep your child healthy.
5. Have I had a chat with my child about starting school?
What aspects is school are they excited about? If they have a little friend from playgroup or nursery who is starting the same school at the same time, it could be good to remind them of this.
What are they worried about? There’s lots of ways you can help them overcome this, for example showing them their new uniform, or getting excited about a new book bag. If you have any pictures of you or other family members starting school or in your uniform, bring these out and use them to support your talks - share some happy memories!
It is also great to read to and with your child about starting school. Do drop by your local London Borough of Hounslow Library and see if you can borrow a copy of these or some others. Your librarian will be able to help you:
- I am Too Absolutely Small for School, by Lauren Child
- Topsy and Tim Start School, by Jean and Gareth Adamson
- Lulu’s First Day, by Anna McQuinn
- King of the Classroom!, by Derrick Barnes
