First day at school

• When it comes to saying goodbye, Leach says ‘Wait until the teacher pulls the group together. It’s not good to rush off while everyone is still milling around, especially if your child is upset.’ She explains ‘This could mean your child will panic. And panic is the last thing you want them to feel, as the panic itself will frighten them.’ If they are still crying, don’t worry. ‘Most children stop about two minutes after their mum disappears,’ explains private school Reception Teacher Sam Hart.
• Don’t forget to tell your child what time you’re going to be back at the end of the day – and make sure you’re on time. Bring a snack with you – your child is likely to be very hungry.
• ‘Don’t ask your child what they’ve learned at the end of the first day, instead ask who they liked,’ says Hart. ‘And tell the teacher who their friends are.’

In the long run

• Although it’s important for your child to make new friends, don’t go overboard arranging a social life. The experts agree that you should keep extra-curricular activities to a minimum while you let your child get used to the exhausting new timetable.
• Starting school is a big adjustment for children, so be prepared for weeks of tiredness and some out-of-character behaviour. This is completely normal, according to Dr Christopher Green author of Beyond Toddlerdom (Vermillion, £9.99).

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