Coping with your child starting school - top tips for parents

First published on Friday 23 September 2016 Last modified on Tuesday 8 December 2020

Experiencing 'empty-nest syndrome' is very common when your little one starts school. But rest assured that if you're feeling emotional about the change ahead, you're not alone. To help you adjust, here are some top tips for coping with that first day, first term or first year of your child starting school.

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Coping with the first day

Gulp, it's only natural to feel emotional about your child starting school for the first time.

Our survey of 2,000 parents found that mums are five times more likely to cry than their child at that first drop off. But try and hold your tears back until your child is in the classroom. You don't want to set her off as well!

If you're off work, arrange a coffee straight after drop off with another parent or parents in your child's class. That way, you can support each other through your own first day nerves.

If you've got to head straight to work, let your boss know in advance that you might be emotional. Chances are she'll have been through it, or someone on your team will have been so they'll be ready and waiting with tissues and a cup of tea, if you need it!

We've got lots more tips on how to prepare your child – and you – in our school section.

How to fill your days

50% of mums surveyed by Netmums said they were worried about missing their child while they're at school. That's why it's important to keep busy.

If you’re a stay-at-home mum or work part time, it's only natural to feel unsure about what your next step should be. You might wonder how you’ll fill the time 'off' now your child is at school.

Maybe you've got younger siblings who you can enjoy devoting some time to (at last!)

If not, this is a GREAT time for you to do something for you. So why not click on the links below and check out our advice if you’ve ever wanted to ...

Learn a new skill.
Start your own business or take on a franchise.
Get fit.
Find a term-time job.
Get back into teaching.

Getting your social life back on track

Netmums' research found that 60% of mums are looking for new friends – that's the equivalent of 2,400 mums looking for a new friend in your area alone!

So while you may worry about feeling lonely once your child starts school, there are a whole load of new mum friends just waiting to be made.

You can easily build up relationships slowly on the school Facebook group, by joining the PTA or by arranging playdates with whoever your child talks about or sits with in class.

And although the school gates are notoriously intimidating, these tips from fellow Netmums should help break down some barriers ...