As your child’s first day draws near, we realise that you and your child will be filled with mixed emotions and your main concern may be as to how your child will settle in. Rest assured that we do understand your feelings and are here to support you and your child through the settling in period.
If you have any questions or concerns, please approach one of our friendly educators and they will assist you in any way they can.
Some children take to new environments extremely well while others may be a little bit apprehensive or unsure. There are a few things you can do to make the settling in period as easy and stress-free as possible for you and your child:
Preparing for the first day at our centre
- Prepare your child beforehand. Talk about Little Joey’s, the new friends they will meet, the fun activities they will do, and new toys they will play with, etc.
- Drive past the pre-School and show Daddy, Grandparents etc. your child’s “new school”.
- Buy a bag and a wide brimmed hat then label it – let your child help to pack it, teach them to recognise their “own” bag.
- Label all clothing and shoes (this helps both the staff and your child).
On your first day
- If possible, make your child’s first day at Little Joey’s shorter than usual to ensure a slow and happy transition to school.
- A staff member will welcome you and introduce you to the other staff and children.
- Allow your child some time to stand and watch. They may not feel ready to join in straight away and will need to do so at their own pace.
- Make sure that your child’s special security item is packed in their bag and clearly labelled if needed.
- Staff will show you:
- Where to put your bag and hat
- Where to put your lunch
- How to sign in and out
- When you feel ready to say goodbye to your child let an educator know so they are close by to offer support, give your child a big hug and kiss and tell them that you need to go for a little while and that you will be back soon, ask them to make you something special for you then leave briskly with a smile, It may cause your child to feel more unsure if you allow them to see you upset.
- Rest assured that staff are very sympathetic to a new child’s distress and will respond in a caring and warm way such as: giving hugs, providing distractions e.g. activities, sitting with the child.
- We will never leave your child to cry, we will always call you if we are unable to settle them.
It’s a good idea to ensure the director has the following details before your child’s first day,
- A photocopy of your child’s immunisation record from Medicare.
- Your child’s Birth Certificate.
- Your child’s completed enrolment form including The CRN numbers for you and your child.
- Go Onto your MYGOV account and confirm your child attendance at Little Joeys.
- Ask any question you may have regarding the Pre-School.
Please feel free to “Contact Us” via our Contact Us Form to make further enquiries or call us on 02 47222455, you are also welcome to drop in any time.
We look forward to meeting you and your child.
