Preparing Your Child for Pre-School

Starting pre-school is an exciting time for children and parents alike, but the transition away from babyhood and into early education is not always easy. Children usually have mixed emotions about starting pre-school, but as a parent there are a few things you can do to help your child settle in. 

Helping your child prepare for pre-school will ensure the start of their education journey is an enjoyable and rewarding experience from the very first day.  To help you on your way, Robyn Taylor Child Development Centre have compiled some helpful advice for parents with toddlers.

Preparing for The First Day

Leading up to your child’s first day at pre-school, it is important to prepare your child both emotionally and academically. We also recommend scheduling a visit to our Croydon childcare centre so that your child can familiarize themselves with the surroundings and meet our educators. 

To help your child have the best possible start to their learning journey at Robyn Taylor, we recommend:

    • Scheduling a Tour – This is a great opportunity for both parents and children to meet our team, tour the grounds and witness the daily routine at our Croydon daycare. 
    • Orientations – We recommend scheduling at least two orientations, 1 hour each of ‘Stay and Play’.  This provides an excellent opportunity for your child to familiarise themselves with the centre environment, form bonds with their educators and other peers.  Parents and Guardians are encouraged to stay at the centre and discuss your child’s needs with our friendly staff.
    • First Week of Half Days – At Robyn Taylor, we aim to ease the transition and settling in period for your child by scheduling the first week at half day attendance, before building it up to full days.  This enables for a smoother transition into the centre environment.
    • Emotional Support – Both yourself and your child may be anxious about starting pre-school. It is important that you take the time to listen and respond to these feelings, reassuring them that pre-school is a safe and nurturing environment.

 

  • Read Books about Pre-School – Help to ease anxiety about starting pre-school whilst also nurturing reading and comprehension skills. Books such as What to Expect at Preschool by Heidi Murkoff and First Day by Margaret Wild are ideal. 
  • Teach Basic Skills – The transition to pre-school often brings out a desire for independence within children. Teaching basic skills such as how to tie their shoe lace, washing hands and using utensils will help ease anxiety and give them the best possible start. 
  • Personal Items – Allow your child to choose a bag which they will take to pre-school each day. They may also wish to take along a special toy or blanket for comfort. Ensure that personal items are labelled with their name.
  • Create a Routine – Establish a predictable routine and try to limit screen time. This will help to promote calm and ease the transition.

The First Week at Pre-School

It can take a few days for your child to settle into pre-school, but rest assured we are here to support the emotional wellbeing of every child. As a parent, you can help in the following ways:

  • Arrive Early – We recommend hanging around for the first 10-15 minutes of pre-school. Take this time to show your child the locations of their classrooms, bag room and meet some of the other children and parents.
  • Ask About Their Day – Check in with your child to see how they are enjoying their time at pre-school. If they have any concerns or worries, please raise this with one of our friendly educators and we will help to overcome them. 
  • Stick to Routine – Disruptions to established routines can be difficult for children. Try to ensure that you eat breakfast and prepare for each day at the same time. 
  • Say Goodbye – Some children can become emotionally overwhelmed in the early days of starting preschool which can be distressing for parents. Don’t sneak away, instead reassure them that pre-srobchool is a safe environment and that you will be there to pick them up later. Try not to say goodbye more than once, as this can cause further stress for both you and your child.

 

Welcome to Robyn Taylor Child Development Centre

We want every child to feel welcome and have a positive start to the next chapter of their lives. If there is anything we can do to ease your child’s transition and better meet your expectations, please don’t hesitate to let us know. 

Robyn Taylor Childcare Centre Croydon is enrolling now. Call us on 9705 8309 or click here to enrol your child. We look forward to meeting you soon.