7 last minute things to do to prepare your child for starting school
Back to School Prep: 7 Last-Minute Things to Do Before School Starts
With just a few days of holidays left, now is the perfect time to gently prepare your child for the transition back to school. These simple, tried-and-tested school readiness tips will help build your child’s confidence, independence, and emotional resilience—so they feel more prepared for the classroom and the playground.
Here are 7 must-do activities to help get your child school-ready:
🍱 1. Use Lunchboxes Now
Let your child practise opening and closing lunchboxes, food containers, and drink bottles. This builds independence and reduces stress during snack and lunch breaks at school.
👟 2. Practise Self-Care Skills
Encourage your child to practise dressing and undressing independently. Focus on zips, buttons, Velcro shoes, and managing layers. Don’t forget bathroom hygiene—wiping and washing hands are essential back-to-school skills!
👫 3. Plan a Play Date or Park Visit
Social skills like sharing, taking turns, and negotiating are key for playground success. A simple playdate or trip to the park or beach where other kids are around helps your child reconnect with group play and social cues.
😊 4. Talk About Feelings
Help your child name and understand emotions—their own and others'. Talk about how people might feel in new situations and explore facial expressions and body language. This builds emotional intelligence and supports social success at school.
💪 5. Encourage Perseverance
When your child tries something new or tricky, encourage them to give it a go a few times before asking for help. This builds resilience and self-confidence, especially helpful when teachers are managing a busy classroom.
🌙 6. Reset the Night Routine
Start shifting into a calm, predictable bedtime routine that supports your child’s need for rest and recovery. A consistent evening rhythm helps regulate energy and mood for school days ahead.
📝 7. Download Our FREE “About Me” Page
Give your child’s new teacher a head start by filling out an “About Me” page. It’s a quick way to share your child’s strengths, challenges, preferences, and support needs—so they feel seen from day one.
A little preparation now can go a long way in creating a smooth, confident start to the school year. 💜
About the writer:
Lauren is a speech pathologist who has over 18 years experience working with children and teenagers who present with a range of learning and communication differences. Lauren is passionate about helping others and loves to find simple and creative ways to make learning fun!
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