Transitioning smoothly into ‘big school’: What parents need to know

St Joseph's Kingswood Primary Kindergarten students holding banner that reads first day of Kindergarten

The first day of Kindergarten!

It’s a milestone filled with excitement, pride and maybe a few nerves (for both you and your child!). Starting “big school” marks the beginning of a whole new adventure, and with a little preparation, you can help make those first weeks calm, confident and full of smiles.

1. Talk it up with excitement!
Children take their cues from you. Speak positively about school, the friends they’ll make, the fun activities and the stories they’ll hear. This helps build excitement rather than anxiety. If you’re feeling nervous, that’s normal too, just try to keep the focus on the positives!

2. Practise the little things
In the lead-up to school, have a few “practice mornings.” Pack the school bag, try on the uniform and walk or drive past the school together. Familiarity makes everything feel a little less overwhelming when the big day arrives.

St Joseph's Kingswood Primary Kindergarten students in class

3. Create a calm morning routine
Have a predictable morning - breakfast, get dressed, brush teeth, bag in hand. This helps children feel secure. Try it out before term starts so it becomes second nature. And remember: even if the first morning feels like a blur, a hug, a smile and a confident goodbye go a long way.

4. Expect tiredness (and big emotions)
Starting school is exciting and exhausting! Don’t be surprised if your child is extra tired or emotional in those first few weeks. Keep afternoons simple, with plenty of rest, snacks and downtime.

St Michael's Baulkham Hills Kindergarten students with principal, Tracy Hoey.

5. Stay connected
Ask open-ended questions like “What was the best thing you did today?” rather than “What did you learn?” And remember, every child settles in at their own pace. If you have any concerns, your child’s teacher is there to help.

Starting school is a big step, but it’s also the start of something wonderful - new friends, new skills and new adventures. At our Catholic schools, we’re here to partner with you in nurturing your child’s learning, faith and wellbeing from the very beginning.

Click here to find a Catholic school near you and learn more about enrolling

Written By

Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
www.parra.catholic.edu.au

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19 Mar 2026
From Facebook
🌏 Harmony Day at St Nicholas of Myra 🧡 Harmony Day is a special opportunity for us to celebrate the rich diversity of cultures, backgrounds, and traditions that make up our wonderful school community. It reminds us that everyone belongs and highlights the importance of respect, inclusion, and understanding. As a Catholic community, we are called to welcome and include all, recognising the dignity of every person and celebrating the unique gifts each individual brings. On Monday 23rd March, students are invited to wear traditional cultural dress or something orange to show their support for Harmony Day. All members of our community are warmly invited to join us for a Harmony Day Prayer, which will take place following our Monday morning assembly at 9:00am. We look forward to celebrating together! 🧡

17 Mar 2026
From Facebook
Today we congratulate our Year 3 and Year 5 students who have now completed their 2026 NAPLAN assessments. We are very proud of the way our students approached these assessments, showing persistence, resilience and a positive attitude as they gave their best effort in each assessment. NAPLAN provides a snapshot of learning, but it does not capture the many strengths, talents and qualities that make each of our students unique. Well done Year 3 and Year 5! 👏