Ten tips for parents of children starting school

Ten Tips for Parents of Children Starting School

1. Provide information about your child's immunisation status
   Your child will be coming into contact with lots of other children and infections can spread very easily.
   Immunisation records need to be presented for Kindergarten enrolment.
   Under the Public Health (Amendment) Act 1992, children who have not been immunised may be sent home during an outbreak of a vaccine-preventable disease.
2. Learn the names of the important people at the school
   Learning the names of staff will help you communicate with your child about their day at school. It is also important that you have a relationship with your child's teacher and principal to ensure you are up to date with your child's progress.
3. Give all information about your child to the school especially medical and special needs
   You know your child best. Your child's kindergarten teacher will have many students to get to know. Help the teacher understand your child better and faster by sharing information and insights. This will also ensure that your child gets any essential attention.
4. Provide emergency contact numbers
   The school might need to contact you urgently. Provide alternative numbers and contacts in case the school is unable to reach you.
5. Make the school aware of any special family circumstances
   Any changes to your child's family situation can impact on their emotional and academic well-being. Inform your child's teacher and principal about any changed circumstances so that the child can be supported if necessary. Examples of special circumstances include the birth of a sibling, divorce or the death of a loved one.
6. Establish routines with your child and stick to them
   Prepare your child for a more structured day. Make a daily routine that includes mealtime, talking time, and reading time.
7. Make sure your child is road/travel safe
   Children should know to cross the road only at marked crossings. Please set a good example. Take particular care when you drop off and collect your child from school.
8. Become familiar with school activities - develop a relationship with the school
   Parents/caregivers set an example. If you are positive and encouraging towards school, your child will be too. Both the students and teachers will appreciate your involvement and assistance in activities ranging from sports and excursions to music and drama presentations.
9. Educate your child about 'stranger danger'
   Teach your child not to talk to strangers. They should not accept gifts or lifts from someone that they do not know.
10. 10. Label equipment and clothing

Replacing lost clothing and equipment is expensive and inconvenient. You should clearly mark every item with your child's name.