Page 26 - PSPS: A Training guide

Remember that support can take many forms:

For Educators/transition professionals:

As a professional engaged in transitions, it is important to remember that your support
can take many different forms. One effective way to provide support is through social
connections. You can help children and families by setting up peer support networks
or introducing families to other families with children in the same class or year group.
Through the facilitation of these connections, you can help children feel more
comfortable in their new surroundings and make new friends, while families have
peace of mind knowing that their child is supported in the best way possible. This can
be especially important for children who may feel apprehensive about starting school.
Another way you can provide support is by offering guidance and
advice on how to navigate the new school environment such as
familiarising families with resources such as after-school
programmes or extracurricular activities.

This may include discussing the differences between preschool and primary school,
and providing families with tips on how to support children in adapting to the new
environment through games and activities at home.

For parents/caregivers
As a parent, it is important to explore different forms of support for your child's
transition. Encourage social connections by reaching out to the school and asking
about peer support networks or introducing your child to other children in their class.
These connections help your child feel more comfortable and make new friends.
Additionally, ask about after-school programmes and extracurricular
activities that can facilitate their transition and provide opportunities
for socialising and adapting to the new school environment.

Don't hesitate to ask the school for guidance on navigating the new environment and
supporting your child's adjustment and learning at home. Engaging in games and
activities together can be a really fun way to ease their transition.

Ensure resources are available:

For Educators/transition professionals:

Don’t overlook the importance of providing resources that can help families prepare
their children and themselves for the transition from preschool to primary school. This
can include books, leaflets, or on-line resources. You can also recommend bedtime
stories or children’s books, which can help them understand what to expect during the
first few weeks of school, what their new environment will be like, and what their daily
routine will look like. Additionally, you can recommend on-line resources for families
that provide information on how to communicate with teachers and how to support
the child's learning at home.