Starting school: real parents share their top tips

1. If you are relaxed, they will be too

'I just relaxed and explained to my kids that school was an amazing place, with kids to play with and they'll have lots of fun and do new activities. They went along absolutely happy on their first day and the days after…'

Reyes Ferrandiz

2. Make sure you plan ahead

'My son has autism so planning weeks ahead helps and I keep reminding him when school starts. I also show him pictures of his school teachers etc, to get him used to the idea.'

Suzanne Cunnane Taylor

3. Create a routine – why not make it fun?

'Don't make a big fuss about it, and keep a routine so it just feels like a normal activity.'

Clare Bauckham

4. Get them involved and make it feel special

'Involve them in choosing and labelling school supplies and make sure they have something special as a surprise in their school bag. Even really little ones need something for their reading folder/bag that comes home every day.'

Penny Meyer-Polins

5. If they're worried, it's ok to reassure them and make them feel better

'Remind them that all the other children will be feeling the same.'

Emma Metcalfe

Some comments have been abridged or edited for clarity.