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This article was first published in August 2020

Whether you were looking forward to a classroom drop-in, or a teacher visiting you at home, many parents have seen their plans for their child's transition to primary school affected by the pandemic. If you feel like your child has missed out as a result, primary school headteacher Dave McPartlin has some top tips to help you get your little one settled in right away.

Dave's tips

• Get excited about your child starting school, because they will pick up on it!
• Remind them that coming to school is fun and an opportunity to make new friends.
• After school, ask what they've been up to. Share experiences of the day.
• Talk about their teacher too!
• Organise a socially distanced play date with their friends in the park.
• Build their independence skills, such as recognising their own name and putting their clothes on in the morning.
• Use the school website or their social media, as well as news outlets, to stay up to date with guidelines. Try to avoid rumours.
• Don't worry if you have a child with SEND - staff will identify what they can do to support them and will communicate it to the parents.
• Make sure you let the teachers know if you've got any worries or concerns.