Specific Issue – Starting School

Throughout our lives we have many "firsts" and new experiences. One of the most powerful for many is Starting School, a major milestone in the lives of all young children and their families. The first years of schooling are crucial for the development of self esteem and the positive attitudes that are necessary for successful schooling and life in general. The success of Starting School and in fact the whole first year of school is dependent upon many factors, one of the most important, is that parents and teachers work in partnership to ensure that the first year of school is a positive, empowering time that establishes solid foundations for learning and life.

What can parents, families and caregivers do at this time?

* understand that children thrive as social beings and as learners in an environment where they feel, safe, secure and accepted.

* acknowledge that all children develop at their own pace, be realistic with expectations and avoid comparing to other children and praise all achievements no matter how big or small.

* spend time with children doing "simple" things together when they are not at school.

* read and share literature and conversation with children regularly. Not only does this have great educational value, but quiet times are created that promote closeness and conversation between children and adults. During these times children often feel comfortable to talk about their day and express their feelings. MOST IMPORTANTLY parents and carers should remember that Starting School is often a new experience for the whole family and should be seen as an exciting step in the development of a happy and healthy child.

Until next time....... by Ariane Simon

Ariane has been working in the Early Childhood Industry for the past thirteen years. She has been a special education teacher in Long Day care, a Director in two Long Day Care Centres, and has taught at both University and TAFE in Early Childhood. She strongly believes that children need to be nurtured throughout all the stages of their lives and that the development of a well rounded, well adjusted child begins with an emphasis on the social and emotional development. She believes that parents, families, schools and community are all important players in the development of young children, as they provide the environments, experiences and interactions that enable children to learn about themselves and their place in this exciting world.

Ariane is married with two little girls, Morgan who is five and has just started school, and Zoe who is two and wishes she was at school.

Article contributed in 2001