From Caterpillars to Butterflies: Helping Your Child Transition from Nursery to Primary School
From Caterpillars to Butterflies: Helping Your Child Transition from Nursery to Primary School
Starting primary school is a big milestone—for children and parents alike. At Hungry Caterpillar Day Nurseries, we understand how exciting (and sometimes a little nerve-wracking) this next step can be. The transition from nursery to reception is more than just moving up a year—it’s a shift in routine, environment and expectations.
Our team is here to support families every step of the way, ensuring children leave nursery with the skills, confidence and enthusiasm to spread their wings and thrive in their new school setting.
Why a Smooth Transition Matters
Transitioning to school isn’t just about being ‘ready to learn’—it’s a journey of emotional, social and cognitive growth. Children adapt to new environments, meet new faces and gain greater independence.
With the right preparation and encouragement, this change can be a positive and empowering experience. A well-supported transition helps build confidence, reduces anxiety, and creates a foundation for a lifelong love of learning.
Tips to Support Your Child’s Transition from Hungry Caterpillar to Primary School
1. Talk About School in a Positive Way
Frame the move to “big school” as an exciting adventure. Keep your language positive and reassuring, and invite your child to share how they’re feeling.
-Share stories or picture books about starting school.
-Chat about what will stay the same—like making new friends and learning through play.
-Reassure them that their new teachers will be there to help and support them.
2. Visit the New School Together
Familiarity helps build confidence. If your child’s school offers induction sessions or open days, take advantage of these.
-Walk or drive past the school together and talk about it.
-Explore the school website or show photos of the playground and classrooms.
-Point out the similarities to nursery—like story time, outdoor play, and lunchtime.
3. Encourage Independence
At Hungry Caterpillar, we focus on helping children become independent little learners. At home, you can continue this by practising everyday tasks:
-Putting on coats and shoes
-Using the toilet independently
-Washing hands properly
-Opening lunch boxes or snack pots
-Tidying up after themselves
These skills will help your child feel confident and capable when they start school.
4. Establish a Consistent Routine
School life brings a more structured day. Begin shifting your child’s routine a few weeks before their first day:
-Set a regular bedtime and wake-up time that aligns with school hours.
-Practise getting dressed, having breakfast, and leaving the house on time.
-Talk through what a typical school day might look like.
Routine brings a sense of comfort, predictability, and calm.
5. Support Emotional and Social Readiness
New surroundings and new peers can be overwhelming at first. Help your child feel socially ready by:
-Organising playdates with future classmates (if possible)
-Practising turn-taking, sharing, and using kind words during play
-Talking about making friends and how to ask for help
At nursery, we nurture these social-emotional skills through group play, stories, and role modelling every day.
6. Make Learning Fun at Home
Building excitement around learning can make school feel like a natural extension of nursery life.
-Read stories together daily
-Count things out loud during everyday routines
-Play games that involve sorting, matching, and problem-solving
-Explore activities like drawing, threading, and using playdough to strengthen fine motor skills
7. First-Day Tips for a Calm and Confident Start
Even with all the preparation, the first day can be emotional. These small steps can help ease the nerves:
-Give yourselves extra time in the morning so it’s not rushed.
-Keep your goodbye cheerful and confident—children feed off your energy.
-Trust the school team—children often settle quickly once inside.
-Let your child know you’re excited to hear all about their day afterwards.
Nurturing Transitions at Hungry Caterpillars
At Hungry Caterpillar Day Nurseries, we’re passionate about supporting children through every stage of their early years journey. As your child gets ready to move on, their key person will be focusing on activities that promote school readiness—encouraging independence, building confidence and celebrating their achievements.
We’re always here to support you and your family. If you have any questions or need personalised tips for your child’s transition, just speak to a member of the nursery team.
Together, we’ll help your little one take the next big step with courage and joy!
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