In this article the Royal Children’s Hospital’s Centre for Community Child Health summarises the research evidence on issues surrounding children’s transition to school, including strategies which aim to make it a smooth and successful process for children and their families. Evidence supports the closer integration of early childhood and school curricula, through common curriculum frameworks, strengthened administrative links and co-teaching arrangements. Integrated programs that share staff, curricula and premises should be supported by policy and funding at all levels of government. Both early years services and schools should also seek to become more family-friendly, creating spaces where families and staff can mingle to effectively support each child’s learning.