Preparing well for starting school

In short: Starting school is a significant transition for children and families that goes more smoothly with good preparation. Besides organisational matters, emotional preparation plays an important role.

In more detail: Compulsory schooling usually begins at age six in Germany, the exact cut-off date varies by federal state.

In detail

• School registration: Usually happens about a year before starting school, often combined with a school medical examination.
• School readiness: Cognitive, social and physical factors play a role, not just age.
• School bag and equipment: Get it in good time, mind weight and safety (reflectors).
• Practising the school route: Walk the way to school together in advance and discuss hazard spots (verkehrszeichen-und-ihre-bedeutung).
• Emotional preparation: Talk about school, build anticipation without creating pressure.
• First days: Routines such as regular bedtimes ease the start.
• Talks with parents: Early contact with the teacher makes exchange easier for questions or problems.