Big Changes, Little People: Why Early Years Children Struggle with the Transition to School and What That Means for Their Behaviour in Those Last Months at Nursery
As we move into the summer months, there will be a huge focus on school places and transition planning. For many young children, starting school is a major milestone that can bring big emotions. Adults may see this transition as a natural next step, but for Early Years children, it can be a time of uncertainty, confusion, and anxiety. These feelings often show up in their behaviour.
What Makes the Transition So Hard?
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A Whole New World 🌍: Moving from a familiar, nurturing environment to a more structured school setting is a big leap. Larger spaces, stricter routines, and higher expectations can feel overwhelming, especially when children are expected to be excited about it.
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Developmental Differences 🌱: Children develop at different rates. Some may handle the transition well, while others might still be mastering skills like toileting, communication, or emotional regulation.
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Emotional Readiness 💖: Not all children are emotionally ready for the social and emotional demands of school. Separation from familiar adults, making new friends, and managing new rules can be daunting.
How It Shows in Behaviour
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Challenging Behaviour 😠: Tantrums, refusal to follow instructions, or aggression can be signs of a child struggling with change.
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Difficulty Concentrating 🤔: Children may appear distracted or find it hard to settle into activities.
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Increased Anxiety 😟: Symptoms like tummy aches, sleep issues, or frequent tears, especially at drop-off time.
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Withdrawal or Clinginess 🤗: A child may become unusually quiet or struggle to separate from parents or carers.
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Regression 🍼: Previously mastered skills, like toilet training or self-feeding, may temporarily disappear.
Things to Consider
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Being Patient and Responsive 🫂: Recognise that behavioural challenges are often a cry for help and respond with kindness and support.
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Focusing on Emotional Literacy 🗣️: Help children name and understand their feelings to express themselves appropriately.
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Building Strong Home-School Links 🏠🏫: Communicate with parents and schools to understand the child’s needs, worries, and routines.
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Preparing Children Gradually 📚: Use books, role play, and visits to school to help children feel comfortable with the new environment.
Transitioning to school is a big deal for little learners. It’s a time of growth and vulnerability. By tuning into the emotional and behavioural cues children give us, and working in partnership with families, practitioners can ensure every child feels supported, understood, and ready for school life.
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