Transitioning smoothly into ‘big school’: What parents need to know

The first day of Kindergarten!

It’s a milestone filled with excitement, pride and maybe a few nerves (for both you and your child!). Starting “big school” marks the beginning of a whole new adventure, and with a little preparation, you can help make those first weeks calm, confident and full of smiles.

1. Talk it up with excitement!
Children take their cues from you. Speak positively about school, the friends they’ll make, the fun activities and the stories they’ll hear. This helps build excitement rather than anxiety. If you’re feeling nervous, that’s normal too, just try to keep the focus on the positives!

2. Practise the little things
In the lead-up to school, have a few “practice mornings.” Pack the school bag, try on the uniform and walk or drive past the school together. Familiarity makes everything feel a little less overwhelming when the big day arrives.

3. Create a calm morning routine
Have a predictable morning - breakfast, get dressed, brush teeth, bag in hand. This helps children feel secure. Try it out before term starts so it becomes second nature. And remember: even if the first morning feels like a blur, a hug, a smile and a confident goodbye go a long way.

4. Expect tiredness (and big emotions)
Starting school is exciting and exhausting! Don’t be surprised if your child is extra tired or emotional in those first few weeks. Keep afternoons simple, with plenty of rest, snacks and downtime.

5. Stay connected
Ask open-ended questions like “What was the best thing you did today?” rather than “What did you learn?” And remember, every child settles in at their own pace. If you have any concerns, your child’s teacher is there to help.

Starting school is a big step, but it’s also the start of something wonderful - new friends, new skills and new adventures. At our Catholic schools, we’re here to partner with you in nurturing your child’s learning, faith and wellbeing from the very beginning.

Click here to find a Catholic school near you and learn more about enrolling

Written By

Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
www.parra.catholic.edu.au

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02 Feb 2026
From Facebook
Stage 3 got a little marsh-mellow but a lot more mighty in today’s team-building challenge! 🍡 Using only spaghetti and marshmallows, students worked together to design and build houses developing leadership skills, communication and resilience along the way. They really rose to the challenge and stuck with it!

02 Feb 2026
From Facebook
What a wonderful first day back at St Finbar’s! Our school was buzzing with excitement and laughter as we kicked off the year together. Teachers embraced the spirit of our theme “Growing Together”, dressing up in creative outfits that brought smiles to students and families alike. From the moment the gates opened, it was clear that 2026 is going to be full of joy, learning, and community. The energy, enthusiasm, and sense of belonging that filled our playground this morning is exactly what makes St Finbar’s such a special place. Here’s to new beginnings, strong friendships, and another year of growing, in faith, truth and knowledge, together. Welcome back everyone! Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese