THINK about it, there’s nothing cuter than a group of five-year-olds standing in their freshly ironed uniforms, oversized school bags on backs waiting for the bell to signal the start of their first day – it rivals baby animals.
The milestone is looming for 120 Great Lakes students who will attend their first day at Forster Public School tomorrow.
As expected there will be some trepidation, tears and maybe a few tantrums (and that’s just from the parents).
“We’re very excited, but I will miss hanging out with her on my days off,” said Ros Driese, who with his wife Di, will be waving goodbye to their daughter Claire on her first day this week.
The couple’s eldest daughter Emily will be starting year four just a few days after her little sister.
“The girls are extremely excited,” he said.
“They’ve tried their uniforms on and we’ve taken photos as you do.”
The family has been working on preparations for school with some varying success.
“We’ve mainly been trying to get them to go to bed earlier. Last night was the first night we’ve actually succeeded, so we’ll try to continue down that path.
“And we’re trying to get them out of bed earlier as well – hopefully before 8am.”
This year’s kindy enrolments have been the biggest Forster Public School has seen, such that they had to create an extra class.
There will be six kindy classes of up to 20 students who have their own toilets and play area to make the transition into big school a little easier.
Tips for parents
STARTING at a new school is always a challenging time for children, whether they are leaving mum and dad for the first time, starting at a new school or moving from primary school to high school. It may be one of the most exciting, scary and frustrating times of their young lives.
Kids Helpline’s suggestions for parents to support their children during this time include:
o Be enthusiastic about the upcoming change. If you are excited and confident, your child will be too.
o Prepare yourself and your child ahead of time - talk with your child about starting school.
o Plan the first day the night before to avoid the early morning rush and any unnecessary stress, ensuring a calm and confident start to school.
o If possible, visit the new school with your child and on the first day walk the little ones all the way to the classroom.
o Start daily routines that will add a structure to make sure your child feels comfortable – eg have the school uniform ready, pack lunches in advance.
o If your child has any special needs discuss this in advance with the teacher eg: dietary or health requirements.
o Put aside extra time, particularly on the first day, for chatting and commuting together.
o After a day at school, spend time with your child and listen to their stories.
Kids Helpline, Australia’s only national children’s counselling service, provides 24-hour counselling services to young people aged 5 to 25 years – free call 1800 55 1800 or online at www.kidshelp.com.au
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