Establish a Routine Before School Starts

Children thrive on consistency and predictability. A few days before the new term begins, gradually reintroduce your child's school routine.

🕒 Begin earlier bedtimes to ensure they are well-rested.

🌅 Wake up at the same time they will need to during the school week.

🍽️ Enjoy a healthy breakfast together each morning.

👕 Prepare clothing and school bags the evening before.

Returning to a familiar routine before the first day helps reduce anxiety and allows children to start the term feeling refreshed and confident.

Talk Positively About the New School Year

Children often mirror the emotions of the adults around them. Speaking positively about starting school can help build excitement and ease any worries they may have.

Take time to talk about:

😊 The friends they will make and see again.

🎨 The exciting activities they will enjoy.

📚 The new things they will learn and discover.

❤️ The caring teachers who will be there to support them every step of the way.

If your child is feeling nervous, reassure them that these feelings are perfectly normal and that our team will be there to help them settle into their new routine.

Pack Your Child's Bag in Advance

Having everything prepared before the first day helps mornings run much more smoothly.

To help families prepare, we have created a detailed "What's in My Bag?" guide, available on our Resources page. It outlines everything your child should bring to ensure they are comfortable, prepared, and ready to enjoy their day with us.

Packing the night before also gives children an opportunity to become involved and encourages independence and responsibility.

Familiarise Yourself with Our Parent Handbook

Our Parent Handbook has been designed to answer many of the questions families may have about our programs, daily routines, policies, procedures, and expectations.

Before the new term begins, we encourage all parents—especially those joining us for the first time—to take a few moments to review the handbook available on our website. It is a valuable resource that helps ensure everyone understands how we work together to provide the very best experience for every child.

Encourage Independence

Small acts of independence help children feel capable and confident.

You can encourage your child to:

🎒 Carry their own bag.

👟 Put on their own shoes.

🧥 Hang up their belongings.

🧼 Practise good handwashing habits.

💧 Recognise their own water bottle and personal belongings.

These simple everyday skills help children settle more easily into their daily routine.

Arrive Calmly and On Time

The first few days of school can be exciting, and allowing a little extra time in the morning can make all the difference.

A relaxed arrival gives children the opportunity to:

🌞 Settle comfortably into the classroom.

👋 Say goodbye without feeling rushed.

🤝 Greet their teachers and friends.

🎈 Begin the day's activities feeling happy and confident.

A calm start often sets the tone for a positive day ahead.

Working Together

One of the greatest factors in a child's success is a strong partnership between parents and educators.

If there is anything we should know that may help support your child—whether it's a change in routine, a new family situation, a medical concern, or simply that they are feeling a little anxious—please don't hesitate to let us know. Open communication allows us to provide the care and encouragement each child needs.

Together, we can help every child feel safe, valued, and ready to learn.

Final Thoughts

Starting a new school year is the beginning of another exciting journey filled with learning, friendships, creativity, and growth.

At Miss Janice's Out of School Care, we are committed to providing a warm, nurturing, and stimulating environment where every child can flourish. We can't wait to welcome both new and returning families on Tuesday, 8th September 2026, and look forward to creating many wonderful memories together throughout the year.

Here's to a happy, successful, and memorable 2026–2027 Academic Year!