Page 84 - PSPS: A Training guide

Tips for Parents
Involve your child in decision-making processes related to their new school. For
example, let them choose their backpack, lunchbox, or school supplies. This
involvement fosters a sense of ownership and control, making them more
invested in the transition.

Establish a consistent and open communication channel with your child's
teacher once they start primary school. Share any relevant information about
your child's interests, strengths, or challenges that can help the teacher better
understand and support your child's needs.

Encourage your child to maintain connections with their
preschool friends, even after transitioning to primary school.
Schedule playdates or outings to ensure they still have
opportunities to socialise with familiar faces. These
interactions can provide a sense of continuity and stability
during the transition.

Be patient and understanding during the adjustment period. Transitioning to a
new school can be overwhelming for some children, and it may take time for
them to fully adapt. Maintain open lines of communication with your child,
providing emotional support and reassurance as needed.

For Educators/Other relevant transition professionals :

Emphasise the importance of familiarising children with the new school
environment and meeting teachers in advance. Share research findings that support
this approach, highlighting how it can reduce children's anxiety and create a sense of
comfort. Advocate for prioritising opportunities for children to visit and engage with
their future primary school to promote a smooth transition.

Work closely with parents to develop a comprehensive transition plan that includes
pre-visits to the primary school. Actively involve parents in the planning process by
addressing their questions and concerns. Regularly review and adapt the transition
plan based on the child's progress and evolving needs. Maintain open communication
with parents, providing updates and seeking their input throughout the planning and
implementation stages.

Facilitate structured visits and joint activities between preschool and primary
school. Coordinate opportunities for children to interact with their future classmates,
engage in group activities, or attend orientation sessions together. Encourage parents
to actively participate in these activities, fostering connections and building a
supportive network within the school community. Provide parents with resources, such
as transition guides or online materials, to support their child's adjustment at home
and ensure continuous engagement.

Establish a system to document the child's transition process, including
observations, their reactions, and feedback from parents. Create a comprehensive