Help children feel confident, prepared and positive about starting school with this 20-page Starting School Talk & Play Pack for children aged 3–5.

This playful transition resource supports children to talk about their feelings, become familiar with school routines, practise communicating their needs and develop confidence and independence before starting Reception.

It is designed to encourage meaningful conversations and playful practice rather than test children against a school-readiness checklist.

The pack includes activities covering:

• All about me
• My new school
• People who can help at school
• Feelings about starting school
• What helps children feel safe
• Asking for help
• Packing a school bag
• Morning routines
• Independence skills
• Lunchtime practice
• Handwashing
• Making friends
• The school day
• School role play
• Storytelling and prediction
• Hopes for starting school
• A starting school certificate

Throughout the pack, children are encouraged to talk, play and practise. Repeated Talk Together and Try It Through Play prompts help adults model language, explore worries and rehearse unfamiliar experiences through simple role play.

This resource is ideal for:
Nursery and preschool settings
Reception transition sessions
School readiness groups
Childminders
Family workshops
Home learning
SEND and communication support
Summer preparation before starting school

The pack supports key areas of the EYFS, including:
Communication and Language
Personal, Social and Emotional Development
Physical Development
Literacy
Understanding the World

The activities can be completed in any order and adapted to suit each child’s needs, experiences and stage of development.