A PRE-SCHOOL has come up with tips to help parents prepare their children for the big step up to primary school.

Early years practitioners from from Kiddi Caru in Somerset are offering advice on simple tasks that will help children into primary school.

Attempting things that will become familiar, such as dressing and undressing, using the bathroom independently or self-serving meals can help to encourage a change in routine.

Other skills such as phonics and the use of tools for cutting, writing or painting can be a good way to increase participation levels.

During the term before starting school the nursery staff talk to children about their fears and anxieties, and encourage parents to find out what their children are most worried about.