The First Few Weeks
Children react differently to the new kindergarten environment and their ability to cope may depend on their personality, temperament and past experiences of attending other services or spending time away from their parents and home. Some children cope well with their new kindergarten setting while others find it more difficult.
To support this process, we offer a smooth relaxed transition. We spend considerable time getting to know your child and developing warm responsive attachments. We know that children need time to adjust and become familiar with new situations, people and places. We strive to establish a nurturing environment that supports this for all children.
Please feel free to discuss the separation process with your teacher. Your teacher will advise you on strategies for your child's needs should your child require an extended settling-in process. We encourage all parents to be accessible during this orientation period. In the event your child is unsettled we will contact you.
In the first few weeks, we slowly transition the children into the environment with half-days with half classes with a parent attending with their child, and then half-days with full classes before we start the normal hours of operation.
The Welcome BBQ
The Welcome BBQ is held in the first couple of weeks of the start of the kindergarten year. We strongly recommend that you come along with your family, meet other new families and let your child show off where their room is and what their favourite aspects of Brookville are.
What to bring to kindergarten
Ensure all items are labelled
- Appropriate-sized kindergarten bag that your child can carry themselves
- Healthy morning tea and lunch
- Water bottle
- Spare clothes
- Sunhat - for Terms One and Four
- Warm winter hat, gloves and coat - for Terms Two and Three
- One box of tissues per term for the classroom
Clothing Advice
Please dress your child in comfortable clothes that are washable and easy to manage so they are free to participate in all activities. Although protective clothing is provided, it is not possible for your child to stay clean at all times. Sand, water, paint, play dough and other messy activities are important sensory experiences that are provided and encouraged at the kindergarten.
Please be aware that long dresses make climbing activities very difficult and lots of buttons, ties, belts and buckles can make it hard for the children at toilet times. Thongs, scuffs, clogs and party shoes are not recommended as they can cause accidents to children when climbing and running. Spare clothes are always recommended.
Please refrain from bringing:
- Any toys other than 'comfort toys'
- Any nut-based products or products containing nuts
- Sweet, salty, high fat foods, lollies, chips, chocolate, roll ups and sweet biscuits are discouraged and will be sent home.
- Food packaging - for environmental and health reasons, the Kindergarten encourages 'naked food' - so no food in packets, no plastic cling wrap etc. Make use of the great lunch boxes available today with compartments to store different food in and celebrate the simplicity of fruit for snacks.
“As a community kindergarten, Brookville is managed by parents - that means that you have an opportunity to be part of the Committee of Management and have a positive impact on the outcomes of your child's education... And of course another benefit is the friendships you make along the way. My children aren't the only ones who have made long-life friendships!”
Amanda, mother of 2 and member of Committee of Management 2017
“My son loves going to Brookville Kindergarten. When I observe him there, his eyes light up with curiosity and wonder. He comes home and tells me about all the bones in my body, how enormous the sun is and how to make words rhyme. Brookville Kindergarten has nurtured his spirit... His mind becomes alive.”
Kate, mother of 3 boys
“My son constantly surprises me with the interesting and thought-provoking experiences he has at kinder. He has also really flourished socially and I love watching his confidence grow every day.”
Jade, mother
“You learn how to respect the toys and the furniture.”
What to expect at kindergarten, Milla, 3 years old
“Both my girls have been through Brookville and loved it. It has been an ideal preparation for school, getting children into the same structure and hours and learning to be responsible for hats, jackets and other personal items. The transition for the eldest one to primary school was seamless... The teachers and management are professional with high-level and regular communication so that you know exactly what your children are learning.”
Dee, mother of two