The new Preparatory Year, to operate statewide from next year, will give young Queenslanders a head start and make the move to Year 1 much easier.
But that doesn't mean the first days of Prep won't prove a little daunting for some children and their parents.
Fortunately, a few simple steps can help.
Early Years Education Officer with Catholic Education in Toowoomba, Anne-Maree d'Abadie, says research shows children often experience a "culture shock" when they begin school.
"The unspoken rules, the organisation of time, and the expectations of the teacher are usually very different from what the child has previously experienced," Ms d'Abadie says.
"Finding opportunities for children to visit the school to familiarise themselves with their new environment can reduce this stress and make the first day a little less scary.
"You could drive or walk by the school a few times or attend an orientation program or open day so your child can meet the teacher and see the classroom.
"It's also a good idea to visit the school while other children are there, if you can. That way your child can get used to the noise and movement of lots of children at the school."
Head of Primary at Noosa's Good Shepherd Lutheran College, Iris Hall, pictured, believes being ready for Prep is more than just being prepared academically.
"Children also need to be socially, emotionally and physically ready for the Prep program," Mrs Hall says.
The college conducts Prep information sessions for parents, explaining the curriculum and outlining steps they can take to prepare their children, such as modelling appropriate behaviours.
"If children see you read, they will value reading, if they see you deal with a conflict quietly and considerately, they will do the same," Mrs Hall says.
Gayndah State School, located about 150km west of Maryborough, has been running Prep since 2005 as part of the statewide phase-in.
Principal Kelly Jeppesen believes parents can help make the transition to full-time schooling easier by preparing their children to be as independent as possible.
"It's also important for parents to teach their children to communicate well so they can make their needs known, respond when spoken to and use appropriate greetings," she says.
Schools are currently taking enrolments for Prep in 2007 for children born between 1 January and 30 June 2002.
Parents are encouraged to ask their school for a Get Set for Prep kit when they enrol their child.
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© The State of Queensland (Department of Education, Training and Employment) 2008.