Starting primary school is a big new adventure for your little one. New routines, new faces, new rules — it’s a lot to take in, even for the most confident four-year-old.
But what if we told you there’s a playful, joyful way to help your child feel ready for this next chapter? One where they can learn the skills they’ll need at school, without even realising they’re learning?
At PQA Poppets, we believe in building confidence through kindness, and growing life skills through laughter, stories, and song. Our weekly performing arts classes for 4-6 year-olds are designed to be a fun and nurturing space where imagination leads the way — but behind the pirates and parades, we’re helping little ones prepare for the real-world leap from nursery to primary. Here’s how Poppets gently supports that transition, skill by skill, giggle by giggle.
In a primary classroom, listening isn’t just polite — it’s essential. Children are expected to follow directions, tune in to their teacher, and respond at the right time. That’s a big change from nursery, where things are often more relaxed and child-led.
At Poppets, we help children strengthen their listening muscles through games, music, and storytelling. When we ask them to march like soldiers, freeze like statues, or wait for their turn in a song, they’re not just playing — they’re practising the very same focus they’ll need in school.
Starting school can feel overwhelming — especially if your child is a little shy or hesitant in new situations. That’s why we gently encourage every Poppet to find their voice in a way that feels right for them.
Whether they’re roaring like a dinosaur or whispering a magic spell, every expression is celebrated. Over time, this helps children feel more comfortable sharing their ideas, speaking to new adults, and raising their hand in class.
Friendships are a huge part of school life — but learning to take turns, share ideas, and work in a group doesn’t always come naturally. At Poppets, children are constantly practising how to connect and collaborate through creative play.
When they build a story together, dance in a circle, or take turns being “the dragon,” they’re learning how to manage feelings, solve little disagreements, and be part of a team — all skills that will help them make friends and feel at ease in their new classroom.
Starting school can stir up big feelings — excitement, nerves, maybe even a few tears. At Poppets, we create a space where those emotions are not only welcome, but part of the learning journey.
By pretending to be characters who feel nervous, proud, silly, or brave, children begin to recognise and express their own emotions more clearly.
They also learn how to regulate those feelings through movement, music, and imaginative play — skills that can make those first few weeks at school feel much more manageable.
At school, children are expected to do more on their own — from hanging up their coat to lining up quietly and following a routine. It’s a big shift from the cosy chaos of nursery.
Poppets supports this growing independence by giving children small, achievable responsibilities — choosing a prop, leading a game, remembering what comes next.
Our sessions follow a gentle structure that mirrors the kind of routine they’ll experience at school, so it all feels a little more familiar when the time comes.
School can sometimes feel a little scary because children worry about getting things wrong. At Poppets, we celebrate effort over perfection. We cheer when they try something new. We clap when they remember one line. We smile when they sing a little louder than last week.
This mindset — that it’s okay to try, even if you’re not perfect — helps children approach school with curiosity rather than fear. It’s not about being the best, it’s about being brave.
Fine motor skills and body awareness are key parts of early learning — from sitting still in assembly to writing their name. At Poppets, we support physical development in a way that feels like play.
Through dance, drama games, and silly movement exercises, children build balance, control, and coordination. And they burn off a little steam too — which means fewer fidgets on the classroom carpet!
Let’s be honest: starting school can be just as emotional for parents as it is for kids. That’s why Poppets is as much about easing your transition as theirs.
We keep you in the loop, celebrate small wins with you, and make sure every goodbye is met with a friendly smile.
You’ll get to watch them grow in confidence week by week — and know that when the school gates open, they’ll walk through them with a little more sparkle in their step.
PQA Poppets: Helping little ones feel big-school ready — one game, one giggle, and one giant leap at a time.
If your little one is starting school this year, PQA Poppets can be the perfect warm-up. With gentle routines, joyful learning, and confidence-building adventures, we’re here to help children feel ready — not just for the classroom, but for all the new experiences school will bring.
