Starting School: What Parents & Clinicians Need to Know

Transitions Are Not Just About Starting School

January is often talked about as “starting school season,” but the truth is, children are transitioning all the time.

From one year to the next, children adjust to new teachers, new classrooms, new expectations, new schedules, new swimming groups, new sports, and new social dynamics. Even when a child stays at the same school, the environment they are stepping into is different.

Of course, bigger transitions like daycare to kindergarten, kindergarten to school, or primary to secondary school ask even more of a child. And for children who already find change difficult, or who have more complex developmental or emotional needs, this period can feel overwhelming.

So what can we do, as parents and as paediatric clinicians, to support children through these transitions in a way that feels safe and achievable?

1. Go With Grace

The first and most important step is compassion.

Transitions are hard. For children, and often for adults too. It helps to name this out loud. Let children know that things are new for you as well, and that you are learning together.

Simple language like, “This is new for me too. We are figuring it out together,” can reduce pressure and build connection. Comfort children when they wobble. Normalise big feelings rather than trying to rush past them.

As a parent:

Remind yourself that your child is not being difficult, they are adjusting. Offer reassurance, closeness, and patience, especially when behaviour changes or regressions show up.

As a clinician:

Hold space for families and children during this period. Normalise transition stress, adjust expectations where needed, and lead with empathy before intervention.

2. Create Routine and Predictability

During times of change, predictability is incredibly regulating for a child’s nervous system.

This is not the time to remove familiar supports. Consistency often matters more during transitions than at any other time. Keeping routines steady helps children feel anchored when so much feels unfamiliar.

For many families, therapy is one of the most predictable parts of the week. A familiar face, a playful environment, and a consistent structure can help children cope with the demands of a new school year.

As a parent:

Protect the routines that work. Morning rhythms, after school decompression time, and regular therapy sessions can provide safety when the outside world feels unpredictable.

As a clinician:

Be mindful that your session may be the most regulated part of a child’s week. Consistency in timing, structure, and approach can be just as therapeutic as the activities themselves.

Book your Term One sessions in January and get complimentary 12 months access to our online program.

3. Prepare Early to Reduce Stress

Preparation reduces stress for everyone.

Setting schedules early allows families to plan and reduces last minute changes. It also supports co regulation, when adults feel organised and calm, children are more likely to feel safe and settled.

Knowing when therapies, extracurricular activities, and rest times are happening reduces decision fatigue and means families can focus on connection rather than logistics.

As a parent:

Planning ahead gives you more capacity to support your child emotionally. A clear weekly rhythm can make mornings smoother and afternoons calmer.

As a clinician:

Early planning allows you to support families more effectively. Locking in schedules, planning caseloads, and communicating early sets everyone up for success.

4. Do Not Stop Support During the Holidays

Children thrive on routine, even during holidays.

This does not mean holidays need to be busy or structured. A slow, comforting, and predictable routine can provide rest while still offering security.

Continuing therapy through the holidays, even in a modified way, supports regulation and helps maintain momentum. Home visits or holiday sessions can ease the transition back into school routines.

At Kids Heart Pilates, our therapies continue through school holidays because we know consistency matters, especially during times of change.

As a parent:

Think of therapy and routine as support, not pressure. Familiar activities can help your child feel grounded during long breaks.

As a clinician:

Where possible, maintain continuity of care through holiday periods. Small adjustments can prevent big regressions and make the return to school smoother.

Book your Term One sessions in January and get complimentary 12 months access to our online program.

5. Practise Transitions Through Group Programs

Group programs provide an opportunity to practise new experiences in a supported environment.

Meeting new people, navigating group dynamics, and trying unfamiliar activities can feel challenging. When guided by clinicians who understand child development and regulation, these experiences can build confidence rather than overwhelm.

As a parent:

Group programs can be a gentle way for your child to practise social skills and flexibility without the pressure of a full classroom.

As a clinician:

Group settings allow you to scaffold social, emotional, and physical challenges while supporting children through manageable levels of discomfort.

Book our holiday program. These sessions are guided by paediatric practitioners who know how to support, provide feedback and develop strategies.

6. Connect the Key Adults Around the Child

Transitions are smoother when the adults around a child are connected.

Parents, educators, and allied health professionals each hold valuable insights. When these are shared early, children benefit from consistent strategies across environments.

As a parent:

Sharing what works for your child with teachers and therapists can prevent misunderstandings and reduce stress early in the year. Reach out  to our practitioners to organise a case conference before school starts.

As a clinician:

This is the time to be proactive. Case conferencing, early communication, and practical strategies for educators can significantly improve outcomes for children and families.

Transitions Do Not Have to Be Stressful

Transitions will always bring some level of challenge, but they do not have to be overwhelming.

With compassion, preparation, consistency, and collaboration, transitions can become opportunities for growth and confidence rather than stress.

When we go with grace and plan thoughtfully, we help children feel safe enough to step into what is new.