Starting Kindergarten is an exciting and important milestone for children and families. At St John the Baptist Primary School, Maitland, we want every child to begin school feeling known, valued and supported.
We recognise that every child’s transition to school is unique. By working in partnership with families and building on the learning children have already experienced at home, preschool and early childhood settings, we aim to make the move to Kindergarten a positive and welcoming experience.
A positive start to school
Transitioning to Kindergarten is about much more than being academically “ready”. Children are developing new relationships, becoming familiar with new routines and environments, and building the confidence and independence they need to navigate their school day.
Familiarity can make a big difference. Before school begins, talking positively about school, establishing predictable routines and giving children opportunities to practise everyday tasks can help them feel more settled and confident. This reflects the practical transition approach used across Catholic primary schools, including familiarising children with school routines and encouraging independence.
Successful Foundations: a playful start to school
At St John the Baptist, our youngest learners are supported through Successful Foundations, a research-informed transition-to-school program grounded in child development and the importance of the early years.
During the first five weeks of Kindergarten, children participate in a dedicated play-based transition program at the beginning of each school day. These purposeful play experiences help children build confidence, develop relationships and establish a strong sense of belonging. They also give teachers valuable opportunities to get to know each child—their interests, strengths, knowledge and ways of learning.
Through play, children have opportunities to:
- form friendships and connect with others;
- build confidence and independence;
- develop self-regulation skills;
- share their interests, knowledge and strengths; and
- feel safe, valued and a sense of belonging at school.
Learning through play
Play is one of the most powerful ways young children learn. Through play, children explore ideas, solve problems, communicate, collaborate and make sense of the world around them.
Successful Foundations builds on the familiar ways children learn in preschool and early childhood settings. Our learning environments are intentionally designed to encourage curiosity, creativity, collaboration and exploration, helping children connect with others and become confident, engaged learners.
Helping your child prepare for Kindergarten
There is no need to recreate school at home. Simple, everyday experiences can help children develop the confidence and independence that will support them when they begin Kindergarten.
Play together: Encourage imaginative play, building, creating, storytelling and role play. Board and card games are also valuable opportunities to practise sharing, turn-taking and managing the disappointment of not always winning. Drawing, cutting, making and creating can help develop fine motor skills.
Establish consistent routines: In the lead-up to Kindergarten, gradually bring bedtimes, wake-up times and mealtimes into line with the school-day routine. Children can also practise wearing their uniform, shoes, socks and hat so these feel familiar before their first day.
Encourage independence: Invite your child to help make their lunch, pack and unpack their bag, carry their school bag, put on their jumper and use public toilets independently. These small skills can give children greater confidence as they navigate their school day.
Keep reading together: Continue sharing books and stories with your child. Reading together supports learning while also providing valuable time to connect, particularly as part of a calm bedtime routine.
Allow time to rest: Starting school is a significant adjustment and children may be more tired than usual, particularly during Term 1. Where possible, keeping afternoons free for play, rest and family time can support their wellbeing as they settle into school.