Primary school checklist

Between books, uniforms and stationary it's easy to forget the little things when it comes to preparing your son or daughter for school. The progression from pre-school to primary school is a scary step for children and parents. Lisa Tynan, a teacher from Rochestown has come up with a handy checklist for parents to make sure they are fully organised before sending their kids out into the big bad world. These may seem obvious but they are often forgotten and are essential for starting school on the right foot 

1. Can your child open and close their coat?

2. Velcro fastening on shoes, imagine the teacher trying to tie 30 laces in the school yard! Velcro is also more manageable for children.

3. Can your child open and close their lunchbox?

4. Can your child open and close their bag?

5. Is their lunch healthy? 

6. Can they independently eat their lunch? 

7. Remind children to eat their lunch before going out to play - otherwise they might lose track of time and miss out on their lunch.

8. Can they go to the toilet, flush and wash hands independently?

9. Encourage your child to ask questions if they are confused or need some help. Also, remind your son or daughter to ask to go to the toilet in plenty of time. 

10. Remind children to listen carefully to the teacher and take down all homework and tasks in a homework diary.

11. Make sure you have your child's name clearly written on their books, lunchbox, bag and other belongings.

12. It is also recommendable to write your child's name on the label of their school uniform and coat to prevent mix-ups.

13. Talk to your child about what they did at school that day, who they met, who they played with. (Note of caution: they may say 'no-one' - parents then get worried that their child has no-one to play with, generally, if the child was left alone for one minute that day, that is what they will remember!)

These simple tips are often taken for granted and according to Lisa, you would be surprised with the amount of children who come into school unable to do any of the above.

In reality, parents are often more anxious about uniforms and lunchboxes and all the other material elements associated with starting school. Ensuring your child has the above skills before starting school will mean that they will be more confident in their abilities.