Starting ‘Big’ School: How to make the transition smooth and stress-free, with Gen Muir

The Parenting Couch

In today’s episode, we sit down with Gen Muir, a renowned parenting expert, to discuss one of the biggest milestones in a child’s life — the transition to 'big' school. If you're preparing to send your little one off to kindergarten, this episode is packed with insights, tips, and advice on making the process smoother for parents and children.

We chat about...

• When to send? Gen provides her guidance on when to ‘send early’ and when to ‘hold back’
• Understanding the Emotional Journey: We dive into the familiar excitement and anxiety children (and parents!) experience when starting a new school. Gen shares practical ways to support your child’s emotional well-being and build resilience.
• Preparation Tips: From settling the morning routine to practising independence, we discuss how you can help your child feel more confident as they enter their new environment.
• Dealing with Separation Anxiety: Strategies for handling those tearful goodbyes at the school gate, and what to do if your child struggles with being away from home.
• Parenting Self-Care: Let's remember you! Gen offers advice on managing one's emotions and expectations as one's child embarks on this new chapter.

Starting ‘big’ school is a significant event for both children and parents, but it can be a joyful and successful transition with the right tools and mindset. Tune in for expert advice on supporting your child and yourself during this exciting time.

About Gen Muir

Gen Muir is a parent educator and founder of Connected Parenting, an obstetric social worker, and the mother of four boys.

She has assisted over 40,000 parents in the highs and lows of raising kids. She is the author of ‘Little People, Big Feelings’, and co-host of the ‘Beyond the Chaos’ Podcast.

She has a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from UNSW, a Graduate Diploma in Grief and Bereavement Counselling. She is also a qualified Circle of Security and Tuning into Kids facilitator.

Gen has appeared on Sunrise, The Morning Show, Studio 10, 2Day FM and ABC.

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