16/04/2026
Great advice for parents who have children moving on to Primary school in September!
Today, many families in Derbyshire will receive their child’s primary or infant school place offer. It’s an exciting milestone as children get ready to take the next step in their learning journey.
As you prepare for them starting, it’s also a good time to make sure your child is well and ready to start school. Simple steps now can help them feel confident and ready for the classroom.
Things to think about include:
• Booking an eye test with an optician if your child hasn’t had one recently
• Think about your childs hearing, while screening isn't routine it can be a good idea to check your child can hear well
• Encouraging good routines such as regular sleep, healthy meals and brushing teeth twice a day
• Helping your child practise skills like using the toilet independently, washing their hands, getting dressed and putting their shoes and coat on
Starting school is a big change for children and families, but a planning ahead can help make the transition smoother and support your child to have a happy, healthy start to school life.
You can find out more about preparing your pre-schooler on our website: https://derbyshirefamilyhealthservice.nhs.uk/our-services/0-5-years/pre-school-
3-5-years or the starting school page: https://derbyshirefamilyhealthservice.nhs.uk/our-services/5-10-years/starting-school
[Image description: A young child sat on a carpet trying to put on a white sock, with black school shoes and another sock nearby. "Preparing for starting school" title and Derbyshire Family Health Service logo.]
