Summer born child slow start to school

Not sure if it’s every school but ours do a gradual start. Usually about 11am-1 for a few days and it increases over the space of 2-3 weeks. I feel you, my July 2021 baby feels far too young to be starting and not sure how he will take it 😭

It is very common for schools to do a gradual approach to full days BUT that’s normally still in every day
Some schools are also quicker than others at getting them in full days

But as they’re summer born you can request half days/flexi days until they hit compulsory school age :)

My sons school did 3 half days before the Friday as a full day :)

do you know if a school can refuse half/flexi days in reception for summer babies? I’m soo worried about my little one starting - she cries every day at nursery drop off still 💔

I want to say no they can’t as legally your child doesn’t have to be in school until next September :) but it’s definitely worth discussing with the school once you know where they’re going

How long has she been at nursery for? :( what are nursery doing to help her settle? Is it the nursery attached to the school you’re hoping for? X

she’s been at nursery since September 2024 - just been with family prior to that. But she’s such a mummy’s girl - she cries every day saying she wants to stay home and doesn’t like nursery. Know that’s not true as she settles when there and she’s playing when I pick her up. It’s a preschool for our catchment school - have applied for out of catchment schools though. They do give her cuddles and try and distract her at drop off but not 100% sure the nursery is the right fit for her but after two terms I thought little point changing as she obv finishes this summer and there’s so few nurseries near me.

Awh bless her :( it’s so so hard isn’t it!
She may surprise you and transition to school much easier! But honestly I wouldn’t worry - once you know where she’s going I’d maybe reach out to explain how she is and if they could support with transition to best help her settle :)

they definitely can’t refuse until your child turns 5, we will only be doing part time and sending in for 3/4 days a week. There’s a Facebook group about flexi schooling which has a lot of information and templates to send to school to inform them of you plan to send your child in part time.

Hi experienced Reception teacher here!

Most schools do a gradual start over a week or two however this is becoming less common these days due to pressure for full time. If you think your child will struggle more than most then please speak to the teacher. It is a good idea to do this before any transition sessions in the summer. I have personally had bespoke arrangements for some individuals so they have had a more gradual introduction to school in the past. Also if your child is at nursery, speak to them about this and get their opinion.

I would like to reassure you that Reception teachers usually have summer born children who need additional support to settle so the school should have strategies in place to support your little one 💗

I’ve been sharing ideas on Instagram about helping children get truly ready for school which you may like to follow:

https://www.instagram.com/ready.for.school?igsh=dnBma3Zxd2ZwbTVm&utm_source=qr

Feel free to message with any questions.