Starting preschool is a big milestone in a young child’s life and can be a huge change for them. It’s perfectly normal for a child to feel anxious about these changes and to take some time to get used to a new environment. Children often lack the skills to deal with major transitions and need some help to navigate their expanding world.

We encourage you to tackle this in a way that suits you and your child and we will support you both. Some parents like to stay for a short time to see that their child is settled and we welcome you doing this. Parents are free to stay as long as they feel necessary, particularly in the early days. Other children might settle quicker if the goodbyes are swift. Either way we recommend always letting your child know that you are leaving – they might get upset but you are also setting a routine for your child where they trust that you will leave and come back for them. If your child is anxious about your departure, let them know when you will be back, with either a time that they can watch for, ie. 3 o’clock, or a cue – ‘soon after you have afternoon tea’.

You will find ‘A Typical Day’ on our About page that describes a typical day at WWPCCC. It might be of use to describe to your child the activities they will do (with suitable enthusiasm!) on their preschool days. Many children find comfort in information, as do adults. You can also involve them in some fun purchases for preschool – a bag for example. All this helps to build some anticipation of fun days to come.

We understand that it can be an anxious time for you too as parents and caregivers. If you have any worries or concerns during the day, or just want to check in, you can call to see how your child is progressing.

 

Upon Arrival

Always ensure that you hand your child over to one of our educators upon arrival. Please don’t leave your child at the door or alone in the classroom. You will find the sign in book within your child’s room – note the time of arrival (and departure) and sign. You will find a Family Communication diary next to the sign in sheet. Please feel free to note anything you need us to know – toileting, medication, early pick up etc.

You or your child can then place their bag and belongings in the assigned area (labelled with your child’s name), apply sunscreen if not already done (you will find a pump pack in the room) and then deliver your child into the care of an educator.

Please note that if someone other than those nominated on the enrolment form will be collecting your child you need to provide a written notice in the Permission Book and inform an educator.  If they are unfamiliar to us, they will be asked for I.D. in line with the Child Protection policy.

 

What to Bring

Being well prepared is a great way to avoid any unnecessary stress for you or your child. Here is a list of things to pack for your child’s days at WWPCCC.

• Bring a piece of fruit – to be placed in the fruit basket on display. We cannot accept rockmelon or portions of watermelon due to health guidelines. The fruit is combined and served to the children as one course at snack time and can be fresh or dried eg sultanas, apricots.

• Adequate changes of clothing. The number necessary depends on the age of your child, toilet training etc. Also be aware that children might get their clothes wet, either during water play (during summer months) or if there has been damp weather. Clothes may also be soiled during meals or play. It is better to send more clothes than less, but we do have a store of clothes in the centre and will always ensure that your child is comfortable. Please ensure all items are labelled clearly.

• Nappies and wipes if required, or an adequate number of underpants. It’s not unusual to see some regression in toileting when a child is anxious so always pack some spare pairs.

• A favourite soft toy or book for quiet time on beds (toys such as action figures can cause disputes, distractions and losses!). These should also be clearly labelled with your child’s name. You can also pack a special soft toy or small blanket that is of comfort to your child.

• Cot-sized sheets in a bag if your child has a day time sleep or bed rest. Labelled.

• A “logo” hat will be provided by the Centre with your child’s name. This is to remain at the centre, so there is no need to pack a separate hat unless your child has a particular favourite.

Please do not send toys which promote violent, aggressive or destructive behaviour.

Your child can bring in items for News. These are to be given to a staff member for safe keeping.