Head of Early Learning Centre

It's the time of year when the children begin preparing for the next stage of their educational journey. For some, this means moving up at the ELC and changing class and teacher. For others, it marks the beginning of Prep. Whatever the step ahead, every child is facing some form of change, and with change comes a mix of excitement and uncertainty. 

At St Catherine’s, we run a range of orientation and transition programs within the ELC and Junior School to guide children through this process with confidence. Children have the chance to visit their new classroom, meet their new teachers, explore new learning spaces and spend time with the peers who will be joining them. These experiences help the unfamiliar become familiar, so that when the new year begins, there are already friendly faces and known spaces waiting for them. 

Our educators talk with the children before each step in the orientation program. These conversations are calm and reassuring, giving children enough information about what is happening without overwhelming them. Children are encouraged to share their thoughts and feelings and to ask questions as they come up. 

Transitions are a big step for parents and carers as well, and the way you approach this time can make a real difference. Here are some ways you can support your child at home. 

Model positivity. Children look to the adults around them to understand how to feel about new situations. When you talk about the change as a chance to learn new things and make new friends, your child is more likely to see it that way too. 

Answer questions honestly and calmly. Respond truthfully and reassuringly to any questions your child may have, keeping your answers short and simple. Over-explaining, or returning to the topic again and again, can unintentionally add to a child's worries. 

Prepare for orientation experiences. Before each visit, remind your child what will be happening and who they might meet. Children feel secure when they know what is coming, and a gentle reminder the evening before or on the morning of the visit can help them walk in feeling ready. 

Allow time to adjust. Every child adapts at their own pace. Some will settle quickly, while others will need longer, and both are completely normal. You may notice tiredness, clinginess or changes in mood as your child gets used to the idea of change. Keeping routines at home consistent, such as mealtimes, bedtimes and morning rituals, provides a sense of stability and predictability when so much else is new. Extra time, patience and cuddles go a long way. 

As the term progresses, families and educators will continue to work together to help the children embrace this change and look forward to the exciting times ahead. If you have any questions or concerns about how your child is feeling, please feel welcome to speak with your child's teacher. We are always happy to talk and to work with you to make this transition a positive one. 

ELC Parent Information Evening for 2027 

Parents of children attending the ELC in 2027 are invited to a parent information evening on Tuesday 10 November.  This event will be held in the Junior School Library at 6.45pm.  ELC Teachers will share separate presentations for children attending three-year-old and four-year-old classes.  This is a great opportunity to find out more about the specific early learning programs that your children will be participating in next year and how you can support your child with the transition. 

Ms Sarah Bethune 

Head of ELC