Starting School: A New Adventure

By Leah Corbett
A reassuring story to help children feel ready for their first day at school.

Starting school is a big milestone for the whole whānau. The more children know about what to expect before they begin, the more confident and secure they'll feel when that first day arrives.

Follow Riley and Alex as they experience their first day at school, exploring new routines, meeting their teacher, making friends, and discovering that it's okay for everyone to feel a little different when trying something new.

Written by Leah Corbett, an experienced primary school teacher with more than 20 years in the classroom. She is also a parent educator and workshop facilitator who works to support families with practical, down-to-earth advice to help children thrive. Alongside the story, Leah shares practical advice for parents and caregivers to help prepare children for this exciting transition, strengthen connection, and support any worries or anxieties that may come up along the way.

How this product supports tamariki:

Starting School: A New Adventure helps children become familiar with what school is like before they get there. Reading the story together creates opportunities to talk about any questions or worries your child may have, helping build confidence, reduce anxiety, and make the transition to school feel like an exciting new adventure.