We’re so excited to welcome you and your child to Holy Cross Mercy! Starting school is a big milestone, and while it can feel a little overwhelming at first, we’re here to make the transition as smooth and positive as possible. Every child settles in at their own pace, and with a little support and encouragement, they’ll soon feel right at home.

What to Expect on the First Day

It’s completely normal for children to feel nervous about their first day. You can help ease those worries by talking through what the day might look like — where they’ll go, what they’ll do, and how long they’ll be there. Encourage your child to share their thoughts and questions and highlight the fun parts of school life like playtime, art, PE, singing, and making new friends.

Even small fears can feel huge to a five year old, so take time to listen and reassure them. Let them know it’s okay to feel unsure, everyone feels that way at first.

Getting Ready for School Life

Children who have had a chance to explore learning through play at home or in preschool often find the transition easier. In the weeks leading up to school, you can help your child feel more confident by:

• Playing turn-taking games or role-playing classroom activities
• Reading books about starting school
• Using toys to act out a school day
• Encouraging drawing, painting, and sitting for short periods
• Spending time with children their own age to build social skills

Let your child help choose their school bag or uniform, and if possible, visit the school together so they can get familiar with the building and surroundings. Establishing a simple routine, like regular bedtimes and morning habits, can also help ease the transition.

After the First Day

Even if your child has attended preschool, the first few weeks of primary school can still be a big adjustment. They may be more tired than usual, or show changes in behaviour as they adapt to new routines. Some children become more clingy or withdrawn, while others may act out, all of which are normal responses to change.

You can support your child by:

• Setting aside time to talk about their day
• Listening to any worries they may have
• Keeping a consistent routine at home
• Helping them understand what’s happening each day
• Encouraging friendships and positive social interactions
• Staying positive and patient as they settle in

If concerns persist, don’t hesitate to speak with your child’s teacher, we’re here to help.

Building Early Reading and Writing Skills

Strong language skills start with everyday conversations. Talking and listening to your child helps them understand how sentences work and prepares them for reading and writing. Whether you’re at home, in the car, or out shopping, there are endless chances to learn together.

Reading together just 10 minutes a day can make a big difference. Choose books you both enjoy, talk about the pictures, and make up your own stories. Point out signs and words as you walk around town, and consider joining our local library.

Learning about letters and sounds can be fun too, sing songs, play rhyming games, and spot familiar letters in books or on packaging. As your child begins to recognise sounds and letters, they’ll start connecting them to words.

Encouraging mark-making and writing is also important. Activities like painting with water, digging, or using pegs help develop the muscles needed for writing. Let your child experiment with crayons, brushes, and pens, and involve them in writing birthday cards or labels.

Starting school is a journey, and at Holy Cross Mercy Primary School, we’re proud to walk that path with you. With a caring environment, strong community spirit, and a focus on early learning, we’re here to help your child thrive from day one.