To Support An Easy Transition To Bucca - Lower Bucca Community Preschool (Placeholder)

Tips for settling in to preschool

We believe it’s essential for children to feel happy and comfortable in their learning space. Play is how children learn best.

Making the transition

There are several ways families can support a smooth and positive transition to preschool.

Attend orientation visits well in advance of your start date. The number of visits will depend on each child’s personality and their experience being away from home.
Express positive feelings and attitudes to your child about this new milestone. Show them that you’re excited for their growth and the start of preschool.
Encourage your child to take responsibility for their belongings from the beginning. Assist them in finding their locker, placing their lunchbox on the trolley or in the fridge, and putting on their hat and sunscreen.
Children are very capable and can gain a sense of accomplishment from taking on responsibilities.
Establish a routine to help make separation smoother. Some families read stories together, while others participate in one or two activities with their child. Children who understand time may be comfortable with parents staying for 10 minutes, half an hour, or an hour before saying goodbye. Some children prefer to wave from a specific spot, hear the car horn beep, or hold an educator’s hand. The waving rock is a popular spot for children to say farewell to their families. Educators are happy to support you through this process, so please let us know how we can assist.
Families are encouraged to make the transition to preschool as gradual as necessary for their child. You are welcome to stay with your child while they adjust to their new environment. While you know your child best, educators have observed that, in some cases, staying longer may not always be helpful. For some children, distress during the separation can be increased by “false starts” or repeated attempts to leave.
Talk with your child’s focus educator about their likes, dislikes, and needs. We greatly value the information families provide, as it helps us tailor your child’s care and education.

Discuss things that are important

Educators aim to provide your family with the best preschool experience possible, and knowing what is important to your family will help them do this.

Please have a conversation with your child’s educator about the aspects that matter most to your family while at preschool.

If you have any concerns, please feel free to share them with the educators.
We understand that this is a significant step for both the children and their family members.
It is natural for there to be some tears as children and families adjust to preschool. Educators will do their best to minimize distress for both parents and children. Families are welcome to call anytime to check on how their child is doing. If a child is distressed and unable to be comforted, educators will contact the family.
We aim to build a partnership with families centered on the well-being and education of your child. We recognize that families are the first and most important educators and deeply value your insights.
Regular, open communication is essential for building the mutual trust and respect that underpins this partnership.

Share information

Sharing information between home and preschool helps educators get to know your child better and offer the most effective support for their learning.

Please share information about:

your child’s current interests in play,
topics they are talking about
questions they are curious about
documentaries they have shown interest in
family outings and guests they have had
family celebrations or important events
Please let us know if there are any factors that may affect your child’s day, such as a disturbed sleep, a difficult or emotional start to the day, health concerns, or medication.