Get Ready for School: Essential Tips for September 2025
- Start Well Learning
- Jun 11
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 15
As September 2025 approaches, countless children in Winsford, Northwich, Moulton, Davenham—and beyond—are preparing to leap from preschool into the big wide world of Reception. It’s an exciting milestone for your child and a sentimental turning point for you. To help families feel confident and ready, here’s a fresh and friendly guide packed with school readiness tips, starting primary school advice, and school preparation tips UK all in one place!
🌟 1. Why School Readiness Matters
The Department for Education and early years experts emphasise that school readiness isn’t just about knowing your ABCs. It’s about confidence, resilience, independence, and emotional wellbeing. A recent initiative outlines a checklist that includes:
Using a knife and fork
Toileting independently
Taking turns and recognising their name
Hanging up coats and washing hands properly
Becoming familiar with these skills helps children feel secure and supported. This, in turn, reduces stress for everyone involved.

2. Start Simple—Routines Rule
Begin easing into your school-like routines 4–6 weeks before term:
Wake Up and Breakfast: Replicate school times to avoid rushed mornings.
School Uniform Practice: Practice buttoning shirts, tying shoes, or using Velcro fastenings.
Packed-Lunch Trial Runs: Lunchtime lasts around 30 minutes. Encourage your child to use cutlery at the table with minimal distractions.
A gentle bedtime routine is equally vital. Experts recommend a 7 PM bedtime, ensuring 12 hours of sleep. This is perfect for busy early years brains.
3. Independence: Small Skills, Big Confidence
Encourage independence through practical daily tasks:
Dressing themselves (coats, shoes)
Washing and drying hands
Going to the toilet unassisted (elasticated waistbands help!)
Tidying up after playtime
Recognising their full name on labels
Opening lunch items and using cutlery properly
When children master these small wins, they walk into school ready to shine with confidence.

4. Talk, Play, Read—Every Day!
Help your child build language skills, social understanding, and curiosity through:
Sharing daily story time
Reading books about starting school—Usborne Starting School Books
Role-playing routines (“coat on, lunchbox ready”)
Visiting the local library for free summer events
Simple number and word games for practice at home
These activities foster learning and emotional readiness. They also highlight the excitement around school beginnings.
Building Relationships with School Staff
There's a wealth of information available to ease the transition. Make connections early with school staff. Strong partnerships with teachers can influence your child’s comfort and success during this crucial time. Attend school events, introductions, and meetings to familiarize yourselves with the environment and staff.
5. Familiarisation: Make School ‘Home’ Before Term
Visit the school together. Explore the classrooms, playground, toilets, and lunch hall. Most schools offer transition sessions where children can meet staff and play in their Reception classroom. Familiarity builds comfort and helps ease nerves on the first day.

6. Manage Nerves with Positivity and Routine
Nervousness is completely normal—for both parents and children. You can help by:
Being positive about school—share happy school memories (even the wobbly bits!)
Establishing a morning goodbye routine—a hug, high-five, or special phrase
Keeping farewells calm and confident—trust that teachers will help
Providing a safe after-school outlet: snack, chat time, calm play
Tips for parents: Don’t hide your anxiety—your child looks to you for reassurance
By focusing on the positives, you help alleviate anxieties.
7. Involve Your Child—Let Them Choose!
Boost excitement by allowing your child to:
Pick school supplies—pencils, water bottles, and backpacks.
Select a school lunchbox or fun folder—they love ownership.
Pack their bag together by spreading the tasks.
Involving them gives them a sense of control over their school routines. Additionally, it fosters a greater connection to their new environment.

8. Nutrition, Sleep & Tech Balance
A healthy foundation is essential. You can ensure this by focusing on:
Sleep: Regular bedtimes lead to better energy and emotional strength.
Nutrition: Nutritious snacks and lunches support learning and mood.
Screen-Time Limits: Too much can disrupt sleep and focus. Keep it balanced.
It's crucial to find that middle ground with technology usage during this transitional period.
🍼 9. Online & Local Resources
Here are four top-quality, trusted resources for deeper guidance:
Parent-kind “Be School Ready” hub
Packed with emotional prep, playful activities, and downloads
Cheshire West & Chester: Starting Primary School
(2025 guide) – terms, admissions, settle-in info.
Sharing Parenting: “Preparing for your child to start school”
Independence tips and lunchtime confidence strategies
MadeForMums: “Top tips for the first day of school”
Practical items to prep, routines, and emotional support ideas
💌 Final Thoughts for September
Expect fatigue—early evenings and calm routines help.
Celebrate new friendships and small wins (“I did PE today!”).
Engage with the school: parent evenings, newsletters, Seesaw messages.
Talk openly about feelings—both you and your child.
Keep supporting independence—it’s the secret to school confidence!
