Morning all! Thanks for the links everyone! I am glad we haven't had a big addition to the babysteps today as I need a wee while to get back into the habit of doing what is on the list so far.
BlackCat is there a teaching assistant in the playground keeping an eye out? Would any of your friends or his friends parents be in the playground? If so could you ask one of them to keep half an eye out when you drop him off?
In our school the dcs who come by school bus are left in the playground fairly early and it seems to be ok. There is usually a TA hanging around somewhere and the front door of the school is open.
How sensible and sociable is your ds? I would be inclined to leave him a touch early and then have relaxed time with dd at nursery. He is older and more likely to be able to cope.
Our school also allow ours to walk to and from school on their own at the age of 8. I have struggled with this myself but they clearly think they are ready to begin to be more self sufficient.
I think this is a moment for dd to have your support though.
Have a chat with him about staying inside the playground and staying away from strangers.
There might even be a breakfast club he could nip into - even though he is fed - just to be sheltered and supervised.
You could also phone the school and ask them if there is a room where dcs go when they have to be dropped a tiny touch early.
Let us know how you get on. It is tricky when you have to be in two places at one time.