Preparing For Your Child’s First Day At School

The transition into childcare can be emotional and sometimes challenging for children and families. At Little Kingdom, our educators are here to support the unique needs of your child and family and give you the easiest and best start to their first day at school.

The Orientation Process

We understand that each child and family is unique and has individual needs. Children react individually and transition into childcare differently. To ensure a positive start to their kindy education, our orientation sessions allow you to visit with your child, meet our lovely educators and see the play environment before their first full day.

Talk to our team to discuss your specific orientation needs. We are here to help with your child’s education in Geraldton, WA!

Your child’s first day at Little Kingdom

Arriving at Little Kingdom

When you and your child arrive, one of our friendly staff members will greet you and help you along on your first day. Thanks to our flexible service, you can arrive at a time that suits your routine.

What to
expect

While each child is different, many children experience separation anxiety on their first day at school. Although your child may appear upset, our experienced staff use gentle techniques and predictable routines to help children feel safe and comfortable.

Saying
goodbye

When you are ready to say goodbye, our staff will be there to support you. We want you to feel comfortable before you leave; however, we recommend speaking to our educators about the best ways to say goodbye before you leave your child.

Reflecting on your day together

After you pick up your child from Little Kingdom, take some time to reflect on their day with a positive and excited tone. Allowing children to reflect on their time with us will help them form connections and settle into care.

Useful tips for transitioning to childcare

Visit the centre in Geraldton, WA

Take some time to visit our Geraldton centre with your child before their first day of kindy education. This will help you and your child become familiar with the educators and comfortable in their new environment.

Give yourself time

If possible, give yourself as much time as possible to make this transition. Orientation periods are designed to suit each child, and giving your child extra time to settle in can be beneficial.

Talk about it

Take the time to explain to your child what to expect on the first day of school. Talk about the drop-off process. Be honest and tell them you will leave but return to pick them up in the afternoon.

Be Reassured

Try to be positive and enthusiastic while talking to your child about starting childcare. When children hear your emotional tone and they’re going to get a sense of reassurance.

Let go of
expectations

Remember that every child is unique and every transition into child care will be different. Give your child the time and support they need to transition successfully.

Talk to your educators

Let our educators know about your child’s likes and dislikes, and how you usually settle them. This information can make the transition to childcare much more comfortable for your child.

Find a
routine

Routines help children feel safe and secure. Find one that works for you. Preparing for child care together allows you to reinforce a positive mindset and make arrival and transition much easier.

Reach
out

Remember that we are here to give you the best child care experience. If you’re unsure or worried at any point in your transition, let us know, and we can find a way to support you.

Staying connected

We always want you to feel connected with your child, and we know that the first day away from your little one can be difficult. We are here to support you every step of the way. Our amazing educators are just a phone call away and always have time to update you.

We also offer regular Story Park updates and an open-door policy, so you will always be a part of your child’s day.

Why Geraldton families trust Little Kingdom Childcare

Book a tour at our Mt Tarcoola centre to see how our kindy education program helps children build confidence, independence and school-readiness — starting from their first day at school. We’d love to show you how we support each child’s unique journey. Contact us to learn more about enrolment, orientation or daily routines.

FAQs

Start with short visits to our centre, bring familiar comfort items and speak positively about the day ahead. Orientation helps ease this adjustment for both of you.

Pack a labelled bag with spare clothes, nappies, bottles, a sun hat, their comfort items and any required food or medication. Submit all forms so we can follow your child’s routine and make their day as smooth as possible. If you’d like more guidance, feel free to reach out to us or check our parent support checklist.

Try to stay calm and positive at drop-off, use a gentle, consistent goodbye phrase and reassure your child that you’ll be back later. It’s normal for both children and parents to feel a little emotional — our caring educators are here to support you and help your child feel safe and settled.

Book a tour at one of our class leading childcare centres

We are here to give your child the best possible early education and care. Book a tour at one of our centres today to see why Little Kingdom childcare is the perfect learning environment for your child.