Starting Preschool...Things you can do to make the transition to pre-school easier - Before School Starts: - Plan social activities for your child so they are familiar with being part of a group, if possible with children who will be attending school with your child.
- Invent a goodbye routine/ritual to use with your child. If your child has not been to daycare you can create opportunities to leave your child for a short period of time, practice your goodbye routine and always return promptly.
- Work on developing your child's listening skills and ability to follow directions by giving them little tasks to do at home eg put your cup in the sink, give it to me. Especially play lots of games where your child has to STOP.
- Wean your child off their dummy or bottle long before school starts to reduce added stress.
- Get your child onto a school patterned routine, gradually change wake and bed times to coincide with school hours. Try to find out what time recess and lunch breaks are at the school your child will be attending and plan your mealtimes accordingly.
- Ensure your child knows what to expect. If your school does not run a transition/orientation programme, arrange to visit the classroom and if possible meet the teacher. Reading books about starting school can also give your child a better idea of what to expect.
- If your child likes accompanying you to the shops, make a special day out of shopping for school supplies. Let your child model their new uniform for family and friends. Don't forget to label all of your purchases.
On the Day: - Create a first day tradition - a first day photo, a special breakfast, a treat after school etc
- Leave plenty of time to get ready in the morning, you don't want to arrive at school late and frazzled.
- Ensure there is a change of clothes in your child's bag in case of any mishaps.
- Send a reminder of home with your child - you could make a family photo into a nametag for your child's bag, or you could let your child wear a piece of jewellery or watch that belongs to you.
- ALWAYS say goodbye. Be matter of fact and confident when you say it, then leave. Don't linger.
- Be patient.... it may take your child a while to settle into their new school environment. Your child's teacher will call you if your child does not settle within a resonable period of time.
- Be EARLY to collect your child at the end of the day.
Articles and InformationPreparing the School for Your Child with Down Syndrome by Terri Mauro Ten Special Needs School Tools by Terri Mauro School Readiness ResourcesBouwkamp, Julie Hi, I'm Ben!... And I've Got a Secret! Burnett, Rochelle Friends at School Forrest-Smith, Lorraine Preschool Functional Checklist : for children with developmental delay and/or Down Syndrome Woloson, Eliza My Friend Isabelle
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