Preparing for School

Beginning school is one of the most important milestones in the life of a child. There are many things parents can do to help ensure that children are well prepared to start school.

·         Talk with children and ask questions, listen carefully to their answers and encourage children to ask why.

·         Read to children every day.  Join the library.

·         Teach them songs and nursery rhymes.

·         Expose children to a variety of activities, encourage their natural curiosity eg making a walk in the park a nature adventure

·         Give children pencils and crayons and a supply of paper to draw and write on, and always praise their efforts

·         Give children opportunities to mix with other children, so they can learn to make friends and to take turns and share.

·         Early childhood education is important

·         Make sure your child has their B4School check around the age of 4 to identify any health concerns or problems with development, behaviour, hearing or vision.

·         Visit the school to become familiar with the teacher and class before starting

Before starting school it is helpful if children can

·         Go to the toilet and wash their hands

·         Manage their clothes including getting shoes on and off

·         Be able to manage lunch and know which food is for playtime and which for lunch

·         Ask for things they need

·         Be comfortable being away from their parent/ caregiver

·         Be able to take turns

It is helpful if children know

·         How to hold a book, how to turn the pages carefully

·         How to write their name

·         The names of colours, and how to count 1-9

·         How to recognise the letters of the alphabet

·         How to use a pencil

·         How to use scissors

More information

·         Ministry of Education: http://www.minedu.govt.nz/Parents/EarlyYears/MovingOnToSchool.aspx

·         www.theparentingplace.com: hot tips: Getting ready for school provides useful tips for parents on managing the transition to school.