The transition from childcare to preschool is an exciting milestone for every family, though it can often come with mixed emotions. You may be proud of how far your little one has come, you may be looking forward to the future – and you may be a little worried about what the transition will look like and how they will handle it.
At Cressy Road Early Learning, we are committed to creating an environment where this transition is smooth and supported. It’s a joyous, fantastic milestone: we aim to make it so.
What’s the Difference Between Childcare and Preschool?
In Australia, childcare typically supports children from infancy to school age and may include access to a preschool program led by teachers who are especially qualified in the early years. Preschool is a development on daycare, with a focus that is still based around play but adds an intentional dimension of school readiness skills.
At preschool age, children should be developing independence, language, social confidence and early skills in literacy and numeracy.
All preschool programs in Australia operate within the Early Years Learning Framework (you may hear this referred to as the EYLF) which ensures continuity in children’s learning and development no matter which setting they attend.
The transition from daycare to preschool doesn’t have to be a daunting, sudden change. In fact, in a quality early years setting, it should simply be the natural next step.
How Do Educators Support this Transition?
At Cressy Road Early Learning, the transition is carefully planned, allowing children to have experiences that help them adjust gradually. They may be introduced gradually to group activities mirroring preschool routines and visit the preschool areas of the centre. Familiarisation with key staff members before the big day is a vital part of children’s preschool readiness, so that they feel secure from day one with the new team around them.
Early years educators know how to support children with the independence they need: this can include toileting, lunchbox practice, managing belongings, and skills relating to dressing such as buttons and zips.
Building Confidence and Independence
A common mistake among parents and carers of young children is that preschool readiness looks like academic ability. But being ready for preschool is more about emotional and social confidence, and building self-help skills.
As early years educators we know the importance of encouraging children’s independence through play and everyday routines: it is amazing how much development comes from getting dressed, learning to share, problem-solving and expressing feelings.
At preschool, children develop an identity and begin to build a sense of their own wellbeing. Parents and carers are perfectly equipped to support this at home by encouraging little ones to make small choices throughout the day and to help with packing their bag or lunchbox.
Emotional Readiness
It’s only natural that some children find transitions difficult. Some parents do, too, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. We have a wealth of strategies to support your child’s emotional wellbeing as they transition from daycare to preschool. These can include:
- Group and individual discussions about change
- Building familiar routines
- Sharing picture books about starting preschool
Early years educators are experienced and skilled in helping children settle and feel secure in their new environment. You can trust our preschool staff to nurture and support your child when you are not present.
Conclusion
With some gentle support, familiar faces and a consistent approach to transition, children can make the step from daycare to preschool with confidence and excitement. You can talk to us at Cressy Road Early Learning at any time, to find out more about your child’s pending transition and how you can work alongside the professional team to support your child.
Book a tour of Cressy Road Early Learning, to see how we can nurture confident and curious preschoolers to be ready for their next learning adventure.