Transitioning young children into school can be a daunting thought for parents.
Head of Early Learning at St Catherine’s School, Toorak, Ms Sarah Bethune, provides her top four tips to make the transition a positive experience for parents and children.
“During this stage of the year it is wise to commence preparing children for the next step in their educational journeys. For some children this means moving on to the next year level, for others it means the commencement of Prep, and potentially changing schools. “For all children, there is some form of change ahead. This is both an exciting and uncertain time,” Ms Bethune explains.
St Catherine’s School’s Early Learning Centre provides a range of orientation and transition programs to support and guide the children through this process, and involves opportunities for visiting the new classrooms, meeting their new teachers and interacting with the other children who will be in their class.
“Our Early Learning educators have ongoing discussions with the children to prepare them for each step in the transition process. This is done in a calm and reassuring way, so the children have enough information about what is happening, but do not become overwhelmed,” Ms Bethune shares.
To best support your child through the school transition, Ms Bethune believes there are four key approaches to put in place to allow your child to embrace the changes ahead of them and see them as an exciting opportunity. They are:
– Role model positivity: This change is an opportunity for the children to learn new things and make new friends.
– Answer questions honestly: Children have many questions. It is important they are answered in an honest and reassuring manner without over-talking the subject and creating further worry.
– Allow time to prepare: Children feel secure in knowing what is happening ahead of time. Allocate time to prepare your child for their orientation sessions by reminding them where they will be going and what will be happening.
– Be prepared: It may take some time for your child to adapt to the change. It is important to maintain consistent routines at home and provide your child with the time and emotional support that they need.
Committed to excellence in early childhood education and care, St Catherine’s Early Learning Centre provides an outstanding environment for children to play, learn and grow, and develop the comprehensive fundamentals to commence school.
For further information visit www.stcatherines.net.au/life-at-st-catherines/academic-programs/early-learning-centre/
