Starting school is a big milestone for children and parents alike.
While many children look forward to new friends, classrooms and adventures, it's completely normal for parents to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety as their little one takes this next step.
The Traitors' Minah Shannon, who appeared on a special ready-for-school episode of CBeebies Parenting Download, shares how she's feeling as her daughter prepares for Reception.
"Six months ago I was like, 'School, school, school. Can't wait! And now it's like, the closer it gets the more anxious I feel."
"It feels like a big change"
Starting school is an exciting milestone, but it can bring mixed emotions for parents too.
Minah admits she's feeling a little anxious ahead of her daughter's first day in Reception.
"My little girl is four and she's starting school next month," she says.
"I know it sounds dramatic because nothing's happened but going from nursery two days a week to school five days a week feels like a big change. It's a whole new chapter for our family."
"I don't know if this is a bit dramatic, but I feel like I'm about to go through like a grieving process. I feel like I'm losing my best friend currently!"
Preparation vs excitement
While parents may be thinking about routines and responsibilities, children are often simply excited about what lies ahead.
"She's so excited," says Minah. "We've been getting her uniform and school shoes, and she can't wait to start."
When asked what she's looking forward to most, the answer was simple: seeing her friends every day.
Having already met her teacher a few times and with support from nursery, Minah feels the transition has been made much easier.
"It feels like the next step rather than something completely different."
Building confidence and independence
One thing Minah has focused on before school starts is helping her daughter become more independent.
"I've made a big point of helping her learn to advocate for herself" says Minah.
That includes practising everyday skills like asking an adult for help, speaking up when something is wrong and building confidence to make friends.
"I explain that I can't make friends for her. If she needs help with something, she needs to feel confident asking a teacher."
These small opportunities to practise independence can help children feel more confident when they start school.
Finding support from other parents
For Minah, connecting with other parents has also helped ease some of the worries around starting school.
"A lot of my friends have children starting school at the same time. Three of our daughters are going to the same school and they've known each other since they were babies."
Having trusted friends nearby can provide reassurance for both parents and children.
"It's comforting knowing there's someone you trust who could help with school pick-up if you're delayed at work. That's one less thing to worry about."
And when it comes to school group chats? "My sisters-in-law told me to mute them!" she laughs.
Keeping the conversation positive
Although Minah feels nervous about this next step, she's careful not to pass those worries on to her daughter.
"I talk about school in a positive way because it is positive. Even though I'm anxious, I don't share all those feelings with her."
Instead, she focuses on the opportunities ahead.
"It really is an exciting thing. They're going to learn, make friends and have so many new experiences."
Minah's top tips for starting school
Talk about school as an exciting new adventure
Practise simple independent skills at home
Encourage your child to ask for help when they need it
Connect with other parents for support
Remember that it's normal for parents to feel nervous too
Starting school is a big step for the whole family. While it's natural to feel emotional as your child grows, focusing on the exciting opportunities ahead can help make the transition a positive experience for everyone.
