Families For Life | A parent's guide to transitioning from K2 to P1
As parents, you might be familiar with the song “Into the Unknown” from Frozen 2. Well, that’s probably what some of us might be feeling, as our little ones transition from the informal and play-based learning of preschool life to the more formal and structured primary school life. The unknown, however, can be an exciting new place to discover. Read on to set your mind at ease with our handy parent’s guide to this significant milestone in your family journey.
Positivity is key
Try to present a positive outlook to your child, even if you are sad or worried. The key is to excite your child for primary school and the opportunity to make new friends. Highlight the facilities in the new school and show him or her photos of children participating in fun activities like sports or cultural performances. The Ministry of Education has also made it easier for students to ease into primary school life by removing weighted assessments and examinations for Primary One and Two, so both you and your child can concentrate on the positive outcomes and joy of learning.
Develop good habits
Your child’s preschool routine probably consists of you packing the school bag, him or her waking up late, a drop off at school (usually later than the stipulated time) and the flexibility to pick up your little one anytime before 7 pm or so. The flexibility of early childhood education in preschool and your child’s dependence on you is perfectly normal, but primary school is different. Here are some good habits you can teach to prepare them for the routines and schedules in primary school.
Practise going to bed and waking up at the same time to ensure enough rest for the next school day
Let your child pack his or her school bag according to the school timetable with some help from you at the beginning
Teach them how to manage their money well, which is great for when they have to buy food at the canteen
Remind them to practise good hygiene like washing their hands regularly or brushing their teeth, as they will have to do these things by themselves
When school starts, try to drop off your child before the bell goes off in the morning to help them settle into the school day and pick your child up on time, this helps your child feel secure and supported
Making Friends
When it hasn't been your day, your week, your month or even your year, friends are good to have. They are also great for your child at his or her new primary school. Although some of their preschool friends might end up in the same school or class as them, they are going to be seeing a sea of new faces. Teach them some simple social skills because a simple hello can turn all those strangers into friends. Here are some tips that help.
Role-model the use of friendly and polite phrases such as “Hello, my name is….., what’s yours?” and “May I Please?” so they know how to approach others
If you know some of the parents of your child’s classmates, organising playdates before school starts gives them a head start in socialising
On the first day of school, give your child clear instructions as to where you will be at recess, this gives your child space to practise a little independence and letting him or her learn from classmates or schoolmates
Ultimately, all it takes is a little trust. Trust that, just like you, our primary schools have your child’s best interest at heart when transitioning to formal education. Orientation programmes and buddy systems ensure they transition smoothly, while specialist staffers like learning support coordinators, and teacher counsellors help strengthen that process.
Explore more
Going to School: Practical Tips
Preparing and Supporting Your Child in Primary School