As the children at canopy Early Education® prepare to transition to primary school, it’s an exciting milestone for the center. The canopy Kindy graduation marks a heartfelt farewell to their familiar childcare environment as they move forward on their learning journey to primary school.
Our approach to transitioning our children to school is thoughtful and gradual. We believe in facilitating an exciting passage that begins long before the first day of school.
At the heart of our transition-to-school approach is building strong connections between our children, and their families, with our dedicated canopy educators. We believe these ties are essential for ensuring a smooth and successful journey for the Kindy children to feel secure and supported as they make this important transition.
We recognise that transitioning to primary school is a significant milestone for the children. While some children adapt easily, others may find it challenging. At canopy Early Education, we provide a comprehensive transition-to-school program that addresses academic skills, resilience, and social and emotional development. Our canopy educators focus on teaching children social responsibility, self-help skills, problem-solving, and emotional expression, preparing them holistically for primary school.
As part of the readiness, we connect the Kindy children with the local primary schools in the community. The Kindy children pay a visit to the nearby schools, which enables them to meet students and teachers and explore the classrooms. We also host special events like “Book Week” where local primary school students visit our centres to read to the children.
Preparing your child for primary school pointers
- Fostering independence: Encouraging self-care skills and responsibility is a key part of our transaction process. At canopy we teach children to manage their belongings, dress themselves, and practice hygiene routines independently. These skills build their confidence and help them feel capable in a new environment.
- Enhancing communication skills: Developing language and social skills is crucial for thriving in the school environment. Our educators focus on developing children’s ability to express themselves, listen to others, and navigate social situations. This ensures they are ready to engage confidently with their peers and teachers.
- Managing Anxiety: Transitioning to primary school can bring about common fears and anxieties. We provide tips for parents to address these concerns, such as; validating their child’s feelings, discussing what to expect, and offering plenty of reassurance to their child.
- Building confidence: Encouraging positive self-talk and resilience is another cornerstone of our transition-to-school approach. We help children develop the skills they need to tackle challenges, fostering a sense of accomplishment and readiness for their transition to primary school.
Practical tips for parents
Building routines: Establishing a consistent routine at home can make the transition to primary school much smoother. Before starting primary school, create a morning routine that mimics their morning school-day schedule, so your child will become more familiar with what to expect.
Visit the school: Familiarising your child with the new environment is crucial. We recommend attending school open days and orientation together, exploring the playground, and meeting their future teacher to create a sense of familiarity and excitement.
Role-playing: Using role-play to simulate school situations can help your child practice different scenarios, like raising their hand in class or asking for help. This playful approach reduces anxiety and builds confidence.
Involvement in preparations: Involving your child in choosing school supplies and discussing what to expect can make the experience more engaging and less intimidating. Let them pick out their backpack or lunchbox (remembering they need to be able to open them independently) and discuss the exciting things they might learn and do.
Working with educators
Collaboration between parents and teachers is essential to support a smooth transition to school. Open communication with your child’s future teachers and sharing any concerns or insights that may help them understand and support your child better. Canopy educators are always on hand to help with this as needed.
By working together, we can ensure that your child’s start to primary school is as positive and seamless as possible.
If you have any questions about your child’s transition, please let us know, at ‘canopy’ we are here to help make your child’s eagerly anticipated journey to “big school” a joyful experience.
Content resource: careforkids.com.au
