Bags packed, uniforms on and excited, with just a touch of nervousness, was how the new cohort of Preppies approached their first day at Sunshine Beach State School on Monday.
It was with mixed emotions parents lingered outside the classroom after saying their goodbyes.
“It’s our last child to go to school. It’s the end of an era and the beginning of a new one. It’s very exciting and it’s taking a little piece of my heart,” said mum Nat.
The occasion marked another chapter in the lives of parents Marty and Ella whose daughter Mali is their third and final child to attend school.
“It’s a big milestone,” Ella said.
A spokeswoman for the school said the school’s Prep Transition Program had been a “game changer” in creating a smooth transition to the classroom for its youngest students.
From term one the program hosts a number of events throughout the school year to help the following year’s Preppies connect with the environment, staff and their fellow students.
“We hold parent sessions, Teddy Bear picnics, author events, classroom events etc. It makes a huge difference to the confidence of the little ones,” she said.
“The first day back is not just the end of holidays; it’s the beginning of new adventures, friendships, and discoveries at Sunshine Beach State School.”
To help parents ease their children from holiday mode to the excitement of the school environment the school has compiled a guide:
Transitioning from Holiday Bliss to School Routine
Begin by reintroducing regular bedtime routines. This helps reset internal clocks and ensures your child is well-rested for the challenges that lie ahead.
Encourage a sense of responsibility by involving your child in the preparation for school process. Let them be part of the lunch and snacks choice and preparation, organizing their backpack, and laying out their uniform ready for the upcoming day. This not only instils a sense of ownership but also builds excitement as they prepare for their school day.
Create a Learning Environment at Home
While the classroom may be where formal education occurs, the home is an equally valuable space for learning. Set aside a designated study area, free from distractions, where your child can comfortably tackle homework and engage in educational activities.
Nurturing the Excitement
Expressing enthusiasm and optimism about the upcoming school year can be contagious. Share positive stories about your own school experiences, discuss the exciting subjects they’ll be exploring, and highlight the potential for making new friends. By nurturing a positive mindset, you set the stage for an eager return to school and be supporting continued engagement in school experiences.
Open Communication Channels
Encourage open communication with your child about any concerns or fears they may have. Addressing these feelings in a supportive manner helps build confidence and resilience. Remind them of the friendly faces they’ll encounter at Sunshine Beach State School and assure them that the school community is there to help make the transition smooth.
Capture the Excitement in Photos
While the official school photo may not capture the first week excitement, consider creating your own back-to-school photo tradition. Snap a picture of your child with their backpack, ready to conquer the year ahead. This not only preserves precious memories but also serves as a visual reminder of their growth throughout their academic journey.
For more information visit sunshinebeachss.eq.edu.au/enrolments/pre-prep.
