FROM LACHLAN THATCHER, PRINCIPAL, CAPALABA STATE COLLEGE
Starting Prep is an exciting moment for families. It’s often a child’s first formal schooling, and it’s natural for parents to wonder how to prepare their child for this step.
Prep readiness is not about academic skills. What matters most is feeling safe, supported, and confident to try new things.
Prep is a gentle transition into school. Children learn through play, exploration, and relationships, developing early literacy, numeracy, social skills, routines, and independence.
Families can help children start Prep calmly by emphasising emotional readiness. Skills like separating from a parent, asking for help, managing minor frustrations, and playing with others are more important than knowing letters or numbers and are supported in Prep classrooms.
Establishing simple routines, such as regular bedtimes, predictable mornings, and practising small independence tasks, such as opening a lunchbox, can help children feel secure and capable.
How adults talk about school influences children. Calm, positive words encourage curiosity instead of worry. Reassuring messages like “Your teacher will help you” or “It’s okay to feel a bit nervous, that happens when we try something new” make a real difference.
During Prep’s first days, calm, confident goodbyes matter. Children usually settle faster with warm, brief farewells. Prep teachers across the Redlands support children and help them feel safe and included.
Every child settles at their own pace. Some adjust quickly; others take longer. Both are normal. Progress in early weeks often shows in small steps, such as staying longer, joining games, or sharing stories about new friends.
At Capalaba State College, starting Prep is a partnership with families. Children who are supported at home and at school are more likely to begin their learning journey with confidence, resilience, and joy.
Starting Prep calmly isn’t about perfection. It’s about building a steady, caring foundation where children feel safe, valued, and ready to grow.
Top five things to remember when starting Prep
- Confidence is more important than academic skills.
- Children do not need to read or write before Prep; feeling safe and willing to try new things is essential.
- Routines help build security.
- Consistent sleep, morning routines, and drop-offs help children know what to expect and feel secure.
- Calm, confident goodbyes help children settle into school routines. Warm, confident farewells reassure children that school is a safe place.
Every child settles in their own time. Quick or gradual adjustment is normal; progress often comes in small steps. You are not doing this alone. Prep teachers are skilled at supporting children and families through the transition.
