The first day of primary school isn’t just a milestone for the child; it’s a moment that tugs at a parent’s heartstrings too.

Seeing them in their fresh new uniform and shiny shoes can make you realise that the years are flying by faster than you want them to. It’s an emotional leap of entrusting your little one to a bigger, busier world beyond the safety of the nest.

In the weeks leading up to school, parents can do a lot to prepare kids for their first day at school. Talk to your child about what to expect – teachers, classmates, the playground, and how the day will run. Read storybooks about starting school, and, if possible, walk past the school building together and admire it! A few gentle reminders are great, but avoid turning it into a constant countdown. Children can feel the pressure if the topic becomes all-consuming.

Independence is one of the biggest shifts in starting big school. Encourage your child to practise skills like opening their lunchbox, using the toilet unaided, putting on their shoes (Velcro is highly recommended over laces) and zipping up their coat. These small wins will give them confidence, and they’ll feel proud knowing they can manage on their own. The teacher will be eternally grateful too! Don’t worry about teaching them academic stuff like how to read or write before school – focus on the practical things.

When you drop them off on the first day, try to keep it short and sweet. Lingering too long can make the separation harder for both of you. Some schools have policies whereby parents aren’t allowed past the front gate on the first day of school. While this might seem alarming to some parents, it can be a great way of making that first school ‘goodbye’ less painful for all involved. A pat on the back and off they go. They’ll be grand.

It’s perfectly normal to feel teary, anxious, or nostalgic on that first morning. But if you’re feeling in any way wobbly, save the big cry for after drop-off. In the words of Elsa from Frozen, ‘Conceal, don’t feel!’ Your calm confidence will reassure your child that school is a safe, positive place. Otherwise, they’ll sense your anxiety and reciprocate it very easily.

The first few weeks can be emotionally and physically exhausting. Instead of peppering your child with questions at pick-up time, give them space. A snack, some quiet play, or even a favourite TV show can help them recharge before they share their day. My kids all settled really well at school and I was mad to hear all the craic, but they weren’t pushed on telling me much about it! Alas, I was drip-fed information on a strict need-to-know basis!

Establishing a good relationship with the school early on is important too. Get to know the teacher and the school’s routines. Read newsletters, check notices, and attend meetings when you can. Children feel more settled when they sense that their parents are part of their school world. I really should practise what I preach here, because I am the Queen of skimming over Aladdin notifications and missing important information!

Starting school is a leap towards independence, but it’s not a leap away from you. There’s a good chance they’ll fall head over heels for their teacher, but don’t worry, you’ll always be their Number One!

Louise Flanagan is an admin of Letterkenny Babies Facebook page and the author of the children’s book series, Dragonterra and Dream Beasts. www.dragonterra.ie