How does Prep help my child for Year 1?

The Year 1 curriculum builds on the curriculum in the Prep Year.

The curriculum in the Prep Year is designed to provide the foundation that children need for success in later schooling.

International research has identified several factors that influence success at school. These are:

· independence

· social learning

· health and physical development

· language development

· early understanding of literacy and numeracy

· ability to think and solve problems

· imagination and creativity

· a positive approach to learning.

How can I help my child?

· Share information about your child with the teacher. This information is always confidential.

· Chat with your child about what they’re doing at school.

· Visit the classroom for a brief chat or to take part in daily activities or special events.

· Encourageyour child to experiment with various materials and equipment.

· Encourage your child to explore different ways to organise areas, e.g. their bedroom, play area, cubby.

· Read together and talk about everyday items such as signs, notices, letters, catalogues, magazines, TV guides, food packaging and bills.

· Read and talk frequently about storybooks, factual books and rhymes.

· Make available a variety of materials and containers for measuring such things as water, grain and sand.

· Involve your child in family activities that investigate mathematical ideas, e.g. cooking, setting the table, matching socks, sharing a meal.

· Provide “junk” materials for drawing, making patterns, and building things.