Transition to School

Parents play a crucial role in helping children prepare for preschool or kindergarten. A smooth transition sets the foundation for children to feel secure, confident, and ready to engage with their educators and peers. By providing support and encouragement, parents can help their children approach this exciting, new chapter with enthusiasm.

Preparing for change

Starting school is a significant milestone for both children and their families. Well before the first day arrives, parents, teachers, and schools all actively prepare for a smooth transition to school. Many schools offer resources and guidance to help families get ready.

Preparation is key to happy transitions, think friendships, positivity and personal stories, school visits or virtual tours, and reading books about starting school with your child... 

Parent Webinar 'Transition to School'2b63857b 3d0f 49f0 a25c 85eebcf9c74b

Council's 'Transition to School' parent webinar is all about preparing children and families for starting preschool or kindergarten. Join transitions researcher, Dr Kathryn Hopps and presenters from the ACT Education Directorate, Sally Johnson and Belinda Lum (September 12, 2024). Use this link to view the webinar recording, and download the useful School Parent Resource Pack full of handy links for new school parents and carers, also books to read with your child about 'starting school' and 'identifying feelings'.

'I found the seminar content very relevant, concise and useful... I really enjoyed the session, it was very informative'.  

Tips on preparing for school

To understand the transition TO preschool, see the ACT Education Directorate's 'preschool pathways' resource. A child’s previous care experiences (ie in-home care, childcare centre, relatives or playgroups) will impact how families prepare for starting school. Parents say they find it useful to do some of the following: 

  • Walk past the school with your child and talk about what they can see,
  • register for the school's orientation day (Sep-Oct),
  • make an appointment to visit the school with your child,
  • look up your school website and email the P&C, your school's parent association (see 'Community' tab on the school website), to ask about events or playdates for your child's new school cohort,
  • subscribe to your school newsletter,
  • look at pictures of the school, 
  • talk positively about your own school experiences with your child,
  • explore how children learn through play and play-based learning,

Taking these steps can help your child feel more comfortable and excited about starting school.

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