The Starting School Survival Guidebook

Starting school is one of the biggest transitions in a child’s life. While many children feel excited, the first weeks of school can also bring tiredness, emotional challenges, and adjustment to new routines.

The Starting School Survival Guidebook was created to help parents understand what this transition really looks like and how to support their child through the first term of school.

Written by an educator and counsellor, this guide explains the common experiences many children have during the early weeks of school and provides practical strategies to help families navigate this important stage with confidence.

Inside this guide you will learn:

• what the first weeks of school often look like for children

• how adjustment unfolds during the first 10 weeks of school

• how to support children experiencing separation anxiety

• why after-school meltdowns and tiredness are common

• simple ways to support your child at home

• when additional support may be helpful

• practical tips for parents during the first term

The guide also includes a Parent Reflection section to help you better understand your child’s feelings, routines, and adjustment to school.

This resource is designed to provide reassurance, practical guidance, and evidence-informed insights to support children as they navigate the transition into school.

Created by Tara Whiteside — educator, counsellor, and founder of Knowledge & Nurture Hub.