Tips for a Smooth Transition from Nursery to Primary School

Starting primary school is a major milestone in a child’s life—one that can feel equally exciting and daunting for both children and parents. The transition from nursery to primary school marks a significant change in routine, environment, and expectations. While every child adapts differently, there are steps parents can take to ensure a smoother transition.

At Busy Bees, we understand that transitions in the early years mark huge moments in a child’s development. With the right support, encouragement, and preparation, your child can step into their reception class with confidence and enthusiasm.

Why A Smooth Transition to School is Important

Transitions in early years settings—such as moving from nursery to school—are about more than just learning new skills and being able to read or write. They involve emotional, social, and cognitive adjustments. Children learn to navigate new relationships, unfamiliar surroundings, and a new level of independence.

A well-supported transition could positively impact a child's well-being, academic progress, and overall confidence. Supporting your child through this transition helps to build their confidence, reduces anxiety, and fosters a positive attitude towards school from day one. Jenny Shaw, the Lead Academic Research and Developer at Busy Bees, explains: 

“Starting school is a big step for your and your child, however lots of positive encouragement and reassurance from you will help to build your child’s confidence”.

How to Support Your Child’s Transition from Nursery to Primary School

Every child’s experience will be different, but there are several ways you can ease the transition from nursery to school:

1.Talk About the Change in a Positive Way

The way you frame school will shape how your child views it. Keep conversations about starting primary school positive and reassuring. 

• Explain what will be different, but also what will stay the same.
• Use books and stories about school to introduce the idea in a fun, familiar way.
• Answer their questions honestly, while reassuring them that teachers are there to help.

2.Visit the School Together

Many schools offer transition sessions for children to meet teachers, explore the classroom, and get a feel for the environment. If possible:

• Visit the school playground or walk past it on weekends to help your child feel more comfortable.
• Walk or drive past the school regularly to build a familiarity.
• Look at the school’s website together to see pictures of their classroom and playground.

Tip: If formal transition sessions aren’t available, arrange a visit or speak with the school about alternative ways to introduce your child into their new setting.

3. Encourage Independence

A key part of Supporting your child’s transition to school is encouraging your child to manage basic self-care tasks, such as:

• Putting on their coat and shoes (practice zips and putting shoes on the right feet). 
• Using the toilet independently & encouraging good hygiene. 
• Opening their lunch box or school bag
• Tidying up after playtime

Practising these skills at home will build their confidence and help them feel more prepared in a school setting. 

4. Establish a School Routine Early

The school day may be longer or more structured than nursery. Gradually adjusting your child’s routine a few weeks before term starts can make the transition smoother. Consider:

• Setting a bedtime and wake-up time that aligns with school hours
• Practising getting dressed and having breakfast at the same time each morning. 

Jenny Shaw, Lead Academic Research and Developer suggests: 

“Having a routine that your child understands will help them to feel safe and secure as they know what to expect”

For more tips on managing separation anxiety, explore this helpful guide. 

5. Support Social and Emotional Readiness

One of the biggest changes in starting reception is the social environment. Children will meet new classmates and teachers and may feel unsure about making friends. Help your child prepare by:

• Organising playdates with other children who will be starting the same school
• Encouraging turn-taking and sharing in everyday play

Each child will react differently when starting reception, but as parents, there is a lot that you can do to support your child’s confidence and in turn, make for a more seamless transition to primary school. 

6. Build Excitement for Learning

Fostering a love for learning at home can make starting primary school an exciting adventure rather than a daunting change. Simple activities like the below can help develop early literacy and numeracy skills in a fun and pressure-free way :

• Developing a love of reading by exploring stories together
• Model counting during everyday activities, for example counting the steps as you go upstairs
• Engaging in creative and problem-solving games like puzzles
• Support children’s fine motor skills for example threading or playdough; preparing the hands for writing later on

First-Day Tips for a Calm and Positive Start to Primary School

Even with the best preparation, the first day of school can feel overwhelming. These simple steps can make the morning smoother:

• Allow plenty of time to get ready so your child isn’t rushed.
• Keep goodbyes upbeat: “Have a great day! I’ll see you after school.”
• Trust the teachers—most children settle quickly once inside.
• Reassure your child that you’ll talk about their day when they get home.

Supporting Transitions in the Early Years: Helping Your Child Thrive

The transition from nursery to school is a significant milestone for both children and parents! With the right support, your child will develop the confidence to embrace this new chapter. Every child adjusts at their own pace, so patience, encouragement, and reassurance are key.

At Busy Bees, we’re committed to supporting transitions in the early years with expert advice and a nurturing approach to early childhood education. Your child’s key person will be focusing on supporting their independence skills at nursery and planning activities to help develop their confidence in starting school.

For more guidance on school readiness, visit our School Readiness page.