A copy of our Transition Guide is available for your information and assistance.
Transitioning to primary school from long day care, kindergarten or care in the home is a big step for young children. For many children, this step will also include attending outside school hours care (OSHC). Whether they attend daily or just a couple of times a week or as needed, there are steps you can take to prepare you child for a school day that includes OSHC.
Tell us what you need
We encourage you to share important information with the school and OSHC educators. This helps us to provide a consistent and supportive environment for children and families. Things you may like to share include:
- any specific settling or calming techniques that may work with your child should they be upset
- any expectations you have of what your child will do at OSHC (which we will aim to meet within the parameters of our service and staffing) e.g. you may wish your child to exercise outdoors in the afternoon
- Any other examples
It’s important that you complete all enrolment and orientation processes so that we can meet your child’s needs in the most appropriate way.
Additional needs
If your child has additional needs, please arrange a meeting to discuss how we can support their transition to our service. We are happy to liaise with specialists within the community and/or the school Inclusive Education Coordinator to provide continuity of care. Issues that may be discussed include:
- level of support the child requires
- duration of support
- necessary training of staff and volunteers
- the safety of all children enrolled
- environmental factors
- sources of information and resources and support services that will ensure the best possible care.
All information is strictly confidential and used only for the purposes for which it is obtained.
Let your child know what to expect
Here are some things you may like to tell your child/ren about what to expect when they attend our service:
- OSHC is different from school and they will have a lot of choice about how they spend their time but there are also some rules for staying safe.
- If they are in Prep, they will be taken to and from their school room from and to the OSHC by an educator. Grade 1 children will also be escorted to their rooms in the first half of the year.
- There are younger and older children at OSHC and it can be quite busy but the OSHC staff can help to find a buddy to play with.
- If they need a rest, they can choose a quiet activity to unwind.
- The OSHC staff really care about kids and if they have a problem or they are worried, they should speak to one of the educators.
This children’s handbook provides a friendly introduction to OSHC. We encourage you to go through this booklet with your child to help them transition successfully to the OSHC.
Thank you for trusting us with your child. We look forward to getting to know them. Feel confident that your child is having a good time and being well cared for before and after school.