Getting Ready for a New School Year: A Parent Checklist
The best way to get ready for a new school year is to start about two weeks before: gently refresh key skills like number facts and reading, move bedtimes back to school-night times, talk through any worries, and set up a homework space and routine. You don't need to pre-teach next year's work. A child who arrives rested, confident and in the habit of a little daily reading and maths practice is well prepared.
Two weeks before: refresh, don't cram
Long holidays can cause some skills to slip, especially number facts and reading fluency. A few minutes a day brings them back quickly. Focus on the basics that every year builds on:
| Age | Skills to refresh |
|---|---|
| 4–6 | Letter sounds, writing their name, counting to 20, number bonds to 10 |
| 6–8 | Reading common words, addition and subtraction within 20, telling the time |
| 8–10 | Times tables, spelling patterns, reading longer books, place value |
| 10–12 | Times tables and division facts, fractions, reading comprehension, typing |
Keep it light: ten minutes of a game, a page or two of reading aloud, or a quick worksheet. The skill pages, such as number bonds to 10, addition within 20 and division facts, are short and focused.
Reset sleep and routines
Changing sleep habits is easiest in small steps. Move bedtime and wake-up time earlier by about 15 minutes every couple of days until you reach school times. Most primary children need around 9 to 12 hours of sleep a night. Practise the morning routine too: getting dressed, breakfast and leaving on time, so the first day isn't a rush.
Talk about worries
A new year can bring a new teacher, new classmates or even a new school. Ask open questions: “What are you looking forward to? Is there anything you're wondering about?” Take worries seriously, but stay upbeat and practical.
- New teacher: look at the school website or newsletter for photos and names.
- New school: visit, walk the route, and find the gate, toilets and classroom if you can.
- Friendships: arrange a play date with a classmate before term starts.
- Harder work: remind them that everyone finds new things hard at first, and that's how learning works.
If worries are strong or last more than a few weeks into term, let the teacher know.
Practical checklist
- Uniform and shoes fit, with names on everything.
- Bag, lunchbox and drink bottle ready.
- Stationery and any book list items bought.
- School calendar dates, such as events and holidays, added to the family calendar.
- Forms, medical information and permission slips returned.
- Logins for any school apps or learning platforms tested.
- Pickup arrangements and after-school activities sorted.
Set up a homework space and routine
Decide where and when homework will happen before the first piece arrives. A quiet spot with good light, a clear surface and the basic supplies works well. Agree on a regular time, such as after a snack, and keep sessions short for younger children. Our homework routine guide has a step-by-step plan. For older children who type assignments, a few minutes a day on Typing Rockets pays off all year.
Build a daily learning habit
A tiny daily habit makes school easier: ten minutes of reading every day, plus a couple of minutes of maths practice. The Daily Maths Challenge and Daily Word Puzzle are quick ways to start. Keep the habit going once term begins, and it becomes part of family life.
The first few weeks
- Expect tiredness. Children are often worn out early in term. Plan quiet afternoons and early nights.
- Ask specific questions. Instead of “How was school?”, try “What made you laugh today?” or “What did you do in maths?”
- Meet the teacher. Go to information evenings and share anything that helps the teacher understand your child.
- Find out what's coming. Ask what topics the class will cover this term so you can support at home.
- Read the reports. Notice any skills that came up as next steps last year and keep practising them.
Looking ahead
If last year's report flagged gaps, the start of a new year is a good time to address them, before new work piles on top. A few weeks of focused practice often makes a big difference. If gaps are bigger, our guide to the signs your child needs a tutor can help you decide on next steps. For children with a test coming up later in the year, our test prep page has original practice.
Frequently asked questions
How can I prepare my child for a new school year?
Start about two weeks before: refresh key skills with short daily practice, move bedtimes back gradually, talk through worries, sort uniform and supplies, and set up a homework space and routine.
Should my child do schoolwork over the holidays?
A little helps. Ten minutes a day of reading and a quick maths game keeps skills fresh without taking over the holiday. There is no need to pre-teach next year’s work.
How do I help my child with first-day nerves?
Talk about what they are looking forward to and what worries them, visit the school if it’s new, arrange a play date with a classmate, and keep the morning calm and unhurried.