It is common for young children to behave a little differently when they start Prep.
For many it is the first time they have been away from their parents and they are often unfamiliar with their environment and the people around them.
Far North Queensland Region Senior Guidance Officer Pam Clayton said changes in children's behaviour often occur but isn't necessarily a cause for concern.
'It is quite usual for children to find the first few weeks of Prep challenging and some will solve this problem by saying they don't want to go,' Ms Clayton said.
'They can develop tummy aches and some previously quite confident little ones can become very unsure of themselves.
'Luckily, with understanding from their parents and their teachers, this rarely lasts more than a few days or so.'
Ms Clayton says that if children are finding it difficult, parents should listen to their concerns and be understanding.
'Let your child know that you believe they will be able to go to school, and ask them what they think will help,' she said.
'It is wonderful what "solutions" children can come up with.
'One little boy I know thought that a goldfish in his room would help, another just needed his Mum's secret kiss in his pocket every day. There is a lot of power in these childgrown solutions.
'It's also important to be as involved as you can manage.
Parents play a vital role in their child's education and by helping out, your child sees that this is something you really value. This really can help your child make a smooth and happy start.'
Prep Year is an important part of a young person's education and it is an exciting first step for students in the early phase of learning.
It builds on what students learn at home and in early education services before they start school and helps them to acquire the skills, knowledge and attitudes they need to be successful in Year 1 and the rest of their school years.
Parents can speak to their child's teacher or school principal for more information or visit:
www.education.qld.gov.au/etrf/prepkit.html
www.aisq.qld.edu.au 
www.qcec.qld.catholic.edu.au
| Birth date | Eligible for Prep | Eligible for Year 1 |
|---|---|---|
| Child born 1 Jan 2002 - 30 June 2002 | 2007 | 2008 |
| Child born 1 July 2002 - 30 June 2003 | 2008 | 2009 |
| Child born 1 July 2003 - 30 June 2004 | 2009 | 2010 |
| Child born 1 July 2004 - 30 June 2005 | 2010 | 2011 |
Encourage your child to be independent by helping them to:
You can be involved with your child's schooling by:
In 2008 the compulsory school age for students increased by six months, following new education laws introduced in October 2006.
All students are now required to turn six years old by 30 June in the year they attend Year 1.
Prior to 2008, students could start school if they turned six at any time during Year 1. However research shows children who are older when they begin compulsory schooling are more likely to engage with and enjoy learning, and will have greater success throughout their education.
The new school starting age means children born between 1 July 2002 and 30 June 2003 are attending the full-time, non-compulsory Prep Year (which replaces preschool) in 2008.
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