Getting Ready for January: Helping Your Child Feel Confident About Going Back to School

From the Head of Education’s Desk – Earlybird Educare

The start of a new year often brings mixed emotions.  Excitement, curiosity, and sometimes a few wobbles too. Whether your child is returning to a familiar classroom or preparing for something new, the weeks leading up to the first day of school are a wonderful opportunity to gently support them as they get ready for school again.

At Earlybird, we believe that emotional readiness is just as important as practical preparation. Here are some simple, effective ways to help your child feel confident, secure, and excited about going back to school.

1. Talk about school naturally during the holidays

You don’t need to make school a “big talk.” Instead, weave it into everyday moments:

• Chat about school while driving, cooking, or playing.

• Mention fun things they enjoy at school, such as friends, stories, songs, or activities. 

• Keep the tone calm and positive.

This helps school feel familiar and safe, rather than sudden or overwhelming.

2. Use school-related vocabulary at home

Hearing school-related words helps children feel prepared and confident. You might talk about:

• Teacher

• Classroom

• Friends

• Snack time

• Learning

• Listening

• Sharing

Using this language at home builds understanding and reduces uncertainty.

3. Talk about teachers and friends

If your child knows their new teacher’s name, start using it:

• “Soon you’ll meet Teacher ___.”

• “Your teacher will help you and keep you safe.”

• Teacher ___ is excited to teach you!”

Talk about friendships too:

• “You might see old friends or make new ones.”

• “Friends are people we play and share with.”

This helps children imagine what school will be like.

4. Invite your child to pack and prepare

Let your child be involved in getting ready:

• Pack their bag together.

• Let them choose the snack they would prefer for the first few days back at school, or water bottle.

• Talk through what goes in the bag and why.

This gives them a sense of control and ownership, which builds confidence.

If your child is still very little:

Even if they’re too young to pack independently, you can still involve them by narrating what you’re doing. As you pack their bag, talk through each item: “This is your water bottle for when you’re thirsty,” or “These are your clothes for school.” Hearing this helps your child understand what to expect and builds a sense of familiarity and safety around school routines.

5. Ask open, gentle questions to create space for your child to share their thoughts:

• “What do you think school will be like?”

• “What are you excited about?”

• “Is there anything you’re wondering about?

There are no right or wrong answers,  listening is the most important part.

6. Talk about feelings.   All feelings are okay

Children may feel happy, nervous, unsure, or excited, sometimes all at once.
You can say:

• “Some children feel excited about school.”

• “Some children feel a little nervous, and that’s okay.”

• “How do you feel about going back to school?”

Even include and share some of your feelings as a parent using “ I feel” statements.

Naming feelings helps children feel understood and supported.

7. Reassure and talk them through the day

Help your child understand what a school day looks like:

• “You’ll arrive, greet your teacher, play, learn, and then come home.”

• “Grown-ups will be there to help you.”

   

Predictability helps children feel safe.

Your calm confidence is powerful. When children see that their grown-ups feel relaxed and positive about school, they are more likely to feel the same.

By talking, listening, and preparing together, you’re helping your child step into January and their first day at school,  feeling supported, capable, and ready to learn.

At Earlybird, we understand that returning to school is a big step,  for children and parents alike. Our well trained and supported teams are here to meet every child where they are at, with care, patience, and a deep understanding of their individual needs. We look forward to welcoming our little learners back, building strong relationships, and creating a joyful, secure environment where every child can grow, learn, and thrive from the very first day.

We wish all our children (and parents) the very best for the first day back at school. As our little learners spread their wings and take flight into the year ahead, we remain committed to laying the foundation for a lifetime of learning, confidence, and growth.