Kindergarten, Here We Come! A Parent’s Guide to Orientation
For children starting school next year, the countdown to big school is officially on.
Kindergarten Orientation gives children and families their first opportunity to experience school life before the first day. From meeting teachers and future classmates to exploring the classroom and playground, Orientation helps children become familiar with their new environment in a fun and welcoming way.
At Sydney Catholic Schools, Orientation programs are designed to help children and families feel connected, informed and excited about the journey ahead.
Read on to discover what you can expect at Kindergarten Orientation.
Hello, new friends!
One of the highlights of Orientation is meeting the people who will be part of your child's school experience.
Children spend time with their Kindergarten teachers, meet future classmates and, at many schools, are introduced to older student buddies who help them feel welcome.
By the time the first day arrives, there are already familiar smiles waiting for them.
What happens during Orientation?
Orientation is filled with fun, age-appropriate activities that introduce children to their new learning environment.
There might be a story on the mat, a song to sing, something to create or a new game to play. Along the way, children get to explore their classroom, join in group activities and discover that learning at big school can be lots of fun.
Parent Tip: Instead of asking "Did you have fun?", try "What was your favourite thing about your new classroom?" or "Who did you meet today?" You might get a little more than a one-word answer!
Getting Ready for School Life
Orientation also introduces children to some of the routines they'll experience when school begins.
From finding their classroom and storing their belongings to exploring the playground and learning about daily routines, these experiences help children become familiar with their new surroundings before the first day.
At the same time, teachers begin getting to know each child's interests, strengths and personality, helping them prepare for a positive start to Kindergarten.
Bernard Ryan, Principal of St Joseph's Catholic Primary School Rosebery, says Orientation helps build important connections before the first day.
"Kindergarten Orientation is a vital step in building connections for your child and family with the school. It helps each child develop a familiarity with the Kindergarten classroom and meet the children they will be going to school with. This familiarity helps lay the foundation for a successful start to school."
Supporting Parents and Carers
Kindergarten isn't just a new beginning for children. It's an exciting new chapter for the whole family.
Orientation gives parents and carers the chance to meet teachers, ask those last-minute questions, and connect with other families who are getting ready for the same milestone.
You may even meet some of the parents you'll be standing beside the school gate for years to come!
Parent Tip: Orientation is your chance to ask questions too. If you're unsure about routines, drop-off, uniforms or what happens on the first day, make a note and ask while you're there.
Ready. Set. Kindy!
By the time the first day of Kindergarten arrives, the classroom won't feel quite so new. There'll be familiar faces, places your child recognises and hopefully plenty to look forward to. Then it's time for the next big milestone – that very first day of school!
Your Kindy Orientation Checklist
✔ Talk positively about starting school
✔ Check what your school recommends bringing
✔ Arrive with plenty of time to settle in
✔ Say hello to your child's teacher
✔ Encourage your child to meet some new friends
✔ Explore the classroom and playground
✔ Take note of important information for the first day
✔ Most importantly – enjoy the moment!
Cultivating Wonder, Wisdom and Witness, Sydney Catholic Schools nurture the whole child through excellence in learning, faith, vocation, sport and the arts.
