Your child may display behaviours or feelings that show they are nervous about their first day.

Visiting the service and getting to know the educators is a good way to prepare your child so they can become familiar with the environment and new routines.

Talking about the service in a positive way and reading books about starting preschool are other great ways to help your child feel safe and excited.

Have you met the preschool teacher?

The preschool teacher is an important person to get to know. The teacher will be able to tell you about what happens at preschool and answer any questions that may help your child settle in. You will also be able to meet the other members of the preschool team.

The service will have a range of policies and procedures to promote the health, safety and wellbeing of all children. These include arrival and departure, food and nutrition, education and sun protection.

For families of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, department preschools will have Aboriginal education officers or Aboriginal school learning support officers employed to provide support. Some preschools that are attached to primary schools may have Aboriginal educational officers, who support Aboriginal families in connecting to school. Additionally, there may be Aboriginal community liaison officers based in nearby NSW Department of Education network offices.

If you would like more information on policies and procedures, talk to the preschool teacher.

Allergies, health conditions and additional needs

Before your child starts, it’s important to let the educators know if your child has any allergies, health conditions, disability or any additional learning and support needs. This will give the educators time to make any necessary arrangements for your child.

Anaphylaxis is a severe and sudden allergic reaction to certain allergens, such as nuts, shellfish, or insect bites. You must let the educators know if your child is allergic to foods or is at risk of anaphylaxis.

Immunisations

Make sure your child’s immunisation schedule is up to date. Your child cannot be enrolled unless they:

• are fully vaccinated for their age
• have a medical reason not to be vaccinated
• are on a recognised vaccination catch-up schedule.

What should my child wear?

Dress your child in comfortable, practical clothes that are safe and easy for them to manage on their own, including shoes they can play and climb in.

While educators try to avoid children staining their clothes, paint and dirt are all part of having fun and learning!

Children will be expected to wear a hat to play outdoors. SunSmart recommends children wear a broad-brim, bucket or legionnaire hat that shades the face, neck, eyes and ears. Encourage your child to get used to wearing a hat when they are outside.