"Helped him feel more at ease and less isolated"

My child's involvement in NHS Lanarkshire’s Get Set School transition group has played a key role in preparing him for the move from nursery to Primary One. Designed and delivered by the Occupational Therapy team for Children and Young People, the group offered my child a supportive space to build the practical skills and confidence needed for a successful start to school.

Across five themed sessions, my child engaged in fun, purposeful activities that helped him develop gross and fine motor skills, pencil and scissor control, and everyday independence—such as dressing, using cutlery, and managing transitions. These sessions were thoughtfully structured to gradually increase independence, with parents present only for the first session. This approach gave my child the chance to practice separating from me in a safe and familiar setting, while also learning to follow routines and instructions alongside peers.

One of the most valuable aspects of the group was the opportunity for my child to meet other children with similar presentations. This sense of shared experience helped him feel more at ease and less isolated, fostering social connection and emotional safety. He also benefited from getting to know the staff in a relaxed, consistent environment—something that’s especially important for my child, as clinical appointments can often feel overwhelming or even traumatic. In contrast, these sessions were positive and empowering, helping him build trust and confidence in a therapeutic setting.

The final feedback time at each session allowed us, as parents, to understand my child's progress and learn strategies to support him at home and in school. Overall, Get Set School has not only equipped him with practical tools for learning—it has also nurtured his enthusiasm, emotional resilience, and readiness for this exciting next step.