Tips for settling DD in reception in January

[Judyandherdreamofhorses]

For various reasons, DD did not start school in September. Instead, she continued 2.5 days in her preschool setting.

She now has a place at a school we're happy with so will start in January.

Has anyone been in this situation who can offer some advice? I'm very worried. Haven't told her yet - she doesn't like the idea of school, but hoping she'll come round!

I don't know whether to take her on a visit - she could easily act abominably.

I sound useless, I know.

What have the school suggested? Would they allow you to do a staggered week the first week if necessary? Why do you think she might act up? Does she have difficulty with behaviour at pre school? I know you probably have but have you been discussing it in a positive light, bigging it up? Does she know any children there already?

Sorry! So many questions just trying to get full picture. You don't sound useless at all btw

Behaviour okay at preschool but it's very informal and familiar. She isn't a child who conforms easily... (yes, I keno that makes her sound like a spolit brat, or me an over-indulgent flakey mother).

Haven't been bigging up school as such as this is a very new and sudden change. She does know one other child there. Hasn't yet been one for friends much though!

Late August birthday.

Ok so she's really you g in the year. I would gently start dropping in idea of school. Tell her she's very lucky as a place has become available just for her. I think I'd be tempted to take her in to meet the teacher. I wonder if you could go and watch their school Xmas play or maybe even pop into the class party? I would ask to meet the teacher or maybe phone him/her and talk it through.

I agree if there was a class party or Christmas Fayre/Carol singing or something she could go along to then that would be a nice informal introduction.

I would definitely get the school to arrange an introduction. DD had three children join her class, ok all went to school before, but all came to say hello and stay for a few hours in the afternoon to meet the rest.

I think meeting 29 other children without warning could be a potential disaster and confuse every child, conforming or not.

Okay, great ideas, thanks. I'm taking her to my school play next week (teacher!) and she hasn't been before so is excited about seeing my school. So then to go and see one at her school could be really good.

I'll speak to the school then about what they suggest. I suppose they'll want it to go as smoothly as possible too.

That's perfect! Yours then hers...seamless introduction :)
Really hope it goes well for her.