Page 82 - PSPS: A Training guide

Unit 8 Communication: Addressing Needs

A child's transition experience is greatly influenced by efficient communication
between parents, educators and school staff. Strong communication skills enable
parents and transition professionals to more effectively comprehend and address the
needs, worries, and emotions of the child during this time of rapid change. Clear and
open communication ensures that the child's voice is heard, helping them feel
supported, valued, and involved in the transition process. Collaborative partnerships
create a cohesive support network, promoting consistency, understanding, and a
smooth transition for the child.

For Parents:

The benefits of familiarising children with the new school
environment and meeting teachers in advance is always
a good step towards easing anxiety related to transition.
Prioritise scheduling visits to the primary school, ensuring
that your child has the opportunity to explore the physical
space, interact with teachers, and ask questions.
By experiencing the new environment first-hand, children
can develop a sense of familiarity and reduce anxiety about
the transition.

Furthermore, you can collaborate with educators/transition professionals and
school staff to develop a comprehensive transition plan that includes pre-visits to the
primary school. You can actively engage in the planning process by addressing any
questions or concerns you may have.

Regularly review and adapt the transition plan based on your child's progress and
evolving needs, while openly communicating with educators and school staff to ensure
the plan is personalized and effective for your child's needs.

For parents, it is important to actively participate in structured visits and joint
activities between the preschool and primary school and encourage your child to
engage with future classmates through playdates, group activities, or attending
orientation sessions together. This promotes connections between families,
specialists, and the school staff, creating a supportive network, and helping to ease
the transition for both you and your child. Take advantage of any/all available
resources, such as transition guides or online materials, to further support your child's
adjustment at home.

You can keep a record of your child's transition journey, including observations,
their reactions, and your feedback. This documentation allows for a comprehensive
understanding of your child's progress and highlights any areas that may require
additional support. Share these records with educators/other relevant professionals.
If you regularly review and reflect on your own records to track your child's growth
throughout the transition, you are supporting a smooth transition.