Sending your child to “big school” can be nerve-wracking, especially when it’s your first child taking that exciting step. But our experts say it doesn’t have to be.

Choosing the right start date for your child, ensuring they’re socially ready, preparing them to learn well and setting up the best possible routine for them from the very beginning, are all simple ways to make sure they shine in Kindergarten and beyond.

In NSW, kids can start Kindy at the start of the school year if they turn 5 on/before 31 July.

The right time to start

“Deciding the best age to send your child to school can be tricky,” said Sue Sinko, Sydney Catholic Schools’ early education expert and a former principal.

In NSW, kids can start Kindy at the beginning of the school year if they turn five on or before 31 July that year. By law, they must be in compulsory schooling by their 6th birthday.

“The decision about when is the best time for your child to start school is an individual one,” Ms Sinko said.

“Starting school at six, instead of five, can give some children an extra year to mature and become more independent. For other children, it won’t be of great benefit.”

Sydney Catholic Schools’ early education expert, Sue Sinko. Photo: Kitty Beale

Ms Sinko recommends discussing the right time to start with people who know your child well and who understand the school system. This can include your child’s preschool educators.

“Deciding when your child should start school should not rest entirely on your child’s academic skills,” she said.

“Teachers say that academic skills are …