Starting School: Supporting Every Child

For some families, starting school feels exciting. For others, it brings a whole host of worries that seem to grow as September gets closer.

• Will they cope with the routine?

• What if they struggle to make friends?

• Will school understand them?

• How do I know if what I'm seeing is typical, or whether they might need extra support?What if everyone else seems to know what they're doing and I don't?

When Nicola Edwards, from Just Bee Children's Wellbeing, and I were talking about children starting school, we realised that we were hearing the same stories from families time and time again. I'm Dr Lucy, a Clinical Psychologist specialising in children's development and neurodivergence. Nicola Edwards is a former Early Years Teacher and Children's Wellbeing Specialist. Between us, we have over 30 years experience of supporting families as they navigate the transition into school.

Some parents come to us in the months before school starts, feeling nervous about what lies ahead. Others find us after their child has already begun school, feeling lost, confused, and overwhelmed by an experience that hasn't unfolded in the way they had expected.

If your child thinks, feels, or learns differently, these worries can feel even heavier. You might already be carrying concerns about sensory differences, emotional regulation, attention, communication, or whether your child will fit into an environment that wasn't designed with their needs in mind.

Many parents tell us they feel as though they're learning to speak a completely new language overnight. Suddenly there are conversations about SEN support, the graduated approach, interventions, referrals, reasonable adjustments, and meetings with professionals. Everyone else seems to know what these words mean and what they're supposed to do next.

But no one has given them the guidebook.

Despite attending the school starter meetings, and speaking with friends, many parents tell us they felt underprepared for this transition. We're often told that children will "settle in", but very few people explain what starting school actually involves, what support schools can offer, or how to advocate for your child if things don't go as smoothly as you'd hoped.

That's why we created a webinar: to provide the information, strategies, and reassurance that we find ourselves sharing with families every day. We want this to feel like you're packing a bag ready for the journey ahead, so you feel prepared!

In this webinar, Nicola and I explore what to expect when your child starts school, typical and atypical development, the graduated approach to support, signs that a child may benefit from additional help, and how to take a strengths-based, neuroaffirming approach to understanding your child's needs. We also discuss practical ways to support your child at home, your rights as a parent, and how to care for your own wellbeing in this next chapter of your parenting journey.

Our hope is that parent come away feeling more informed, more confident, and less alone. There may not be a universal guidebook for starting school, but with the right information and support, you can find a path that works for your child and your family.

Don't just take our word for it. Previous attendees have told us:

"This was SUCH a useful session - I really valued both your areas of expertise and loved the tips and tricks offered. 100% recommended”

"The power hour was really helpful. We found the breakdown and practical info for school policy and how it all works really useful. I find the emotional support and routine info especially useful”

"Such a useful session. You've really put my mind at ease about what it 'normal' and what to expect when starting school. I feel like I know how to support and advocate for their needs"

The webinar includes a 60-minute recorded session, a comprehensive PDF resource pack, and additional resources to support you throughout this transition. You can sign up here, and watch at your own pace!