Kindergarten Readiness

IS MY CHILD READY?

Sometimes it can be difficult to decide whether your child is ready for the next step in their education; whether that be entering three or four-year-old kindergarten or starting school. Below is some important information to help you make an informed choice. If you have concerns or would like to discuss this information with an educator at Moriac Preschool please give us a call on 52662160

DECIDING WHEN YOUR CHILD SHOULD START KINDERGARTEN

Looking at your child skills, interests and abilities is the best way of deciding if they’re ready for this next step.

The Department of Education and Training (DET) states:

It is important for children to start school when they are ready to learn in a more formal environment. It is also important for you consider when it is best for your child to start school as this will help you determine the best time for them to begin kindergarten.

Deferring Kindergarten

Sarah Henderson, the Moriac Preschool teacher, is available to discuss Kindergarten readiness with families one or two years before they are eligible to attend. This gives the families more time to make the appropriate decisions around which year will be the best to start kindergarten.

Victorian State Government Policy states that a child is entitled to funding for ONE year of a 4 year old kindergarten only.  A child should not start four-year-old kindergarten young with the thought that they can just do another year.

Things to look for when considering whether your child is ready for kindergarten or whether you should wait another year include

  • Separation issues – how does your child separate from you?
  • Does your child ask for help when required?
  • Is your child easily understood most of the time?
  • How is fine and gross motor development?
  • Is toilet training established?
  • Does your child still need a daytime sleep? Tire easily?
  • Is your child willing to try to understand reasons for sharing and turn taking?
  • How does your child respond to simple instructions?
  • Is your child comfortable in a group setting?
  • Is your child easily upset/distressed?
  • Can your child wash hands independently and find their own belongings?
  • Can your child move from one activity to another without constant adult supervision?

Deferment can assist the child to

  • Become more confident where they may be more comfortable to take on the role of a leader rather than a follower.
  • Allows children to have time to make their own decisions
  • Takes the stress and anxiety off the child to try to be like peers when they need to develop at their own rate.

If you are deciding which year to start your child in three or four-year-old kindergarten or if this information has set off any alarm bells for you please talk to Sarah.