The transition from primary to secondary school is an exciting but often nerve-wracking experience for students and their families.

Here are practical ways that parents and carers can assist with preparing their Year 6 student for secondary school: 

• share helpful family stories about change (moving schools, new job, new lifestyle), particularly where there are examples of feeling nervous, making mistakes, and asking for help.

• practise travelling to the new school together during the holidays, so students feel confident doing it on their own when the school year begins.

• look at the high school’s website and social media pages together to see what sort of information you can find. Follow up with the school if you or your child have questions.

• check in with your new school about what orientation activities might be planned. And talk to your existing school: do they have any transition activities?

• importantly, talk with your young person about how they and their classmates are feeling about the move to secondary school. What are their challenges? What could help?

From The Conversation: ‘It makes me nervous: how to help your child prepare for high school'

A helpful guide for parents and carers who have a child moving into Year 7 is Starting Secondary School by renowned psychologist and author Michael Carr-Gregg and Sharon Witt. 

This invaluable resource for Australian families provides all the tools and information parents and carers need for facing this major milestone in their child's life, with the latest advice on: 

· Choosing the right school
· Settling into secondary school
· Homework, study tips and tricks
· Coping with stress, anxiety, and depression
· Social issues such as bullying and friendships
· Health and wellbeing, including the importance of sleep and diet
· Latest advice on mobile phones and technology

Published by Penguin Books, available from all major book retailers.