Blog Post

10-Point Checklist: Getting Ready for Preschool

Kerryn Massyn • January 28, 2022

Preparing for preschool to calm those nerves and curb those tears.

We’ve put together a ‘getting ready for preschool checklist’ to calm those nerves and curb those tears.

As with many things in life, preparation is the key to success when it comes to getting ready for preschool. So, to help you both prepare for this big step, we have put together a preschool preparation checklist detailing 10 ways to make the transition one of confidence and growth.


Learn how Crawford approaches preschool learning through meaningful play.


1. Get a sneak peek.


Try to drive past the preschool daily, starting a couple of weeks before school begins. Point out the gate, class, or playground. As you prepare for preschool, this will help form some familiarity with the new setting. If you know of any other children who are starting school, try setting up a few playdates ahead of time.


2. Get organised.


Try to involve your child as much as possible in getting all the various bits and pieces needed. So, get them to help you choose a backpack, shoes, lunchbox, water bottles, hat, etc. You might not be thrilled by all their picks but having something they love helps them feel more comfortable with the transition as you prepare for preschool. Then, remember to label absolutely everything – a lost sock is more common than anyone would wish!


3. Shift your routine.


A few weeks before school starts, start gradually making any necessary changes to your child’s routine around mealtimes and nap times to get ready for preschool. You may also want to consider an earlier bedtime and waking time. The idea here is to get things as close as possible to how routines will work when school starts so that things are more consistent and predictable throughout the transition. Keep things the same through school holidays and weekends too.


4. Read about it.


Reading is a great way to introduce big concepts to young children. So, as you prepare for preschool, read stories about going to school with your child. Talk through scenarios in the book, the feelings of the characters, and how the stories may be mirroring what your child is going through.


5. Talk about it.


Being able to chat about things in a relaxed, calm setting helps children feel a bit more in control of things, which in turn helps that ‘getting ready for preschool’ anxiety. Talk about things your child will be doing at preschool, or about some of the things that will be different from home (like the toilets and playground) – but don’t push things.


If your child doesn’t seem interested, or you notice anxiety building, let it go. You could also try playing school – take turns being parent, child, and teacher, and act out daily routines like saying goodbye, story-time, etc. The goal is to assure your child that they will be in a safe place where they will be having fun and learning.


6. Spend time apart.


Making the transition could be easier on your child if you have spent regular time away from them. So, as you prepare for preschool, lean on the help of grandparents, relatives, and friends to get them used to the idea of not being with you.


7. Create a special goodbye.


How a parent treats the morning goodbye goes a long way to help a child start their school day with confidence. In the lead-up to getting ready for preschool, come up with a special goodbye ritual together that you do every day. This can be a kiss in the palm of the hand that they can “hold onto all day long”, or a special handshake.


Whatever helps create familiarity and shows your child you love them. Then, when it comes to drop-off time, try not to linger and keep things positive. Do your special goodbye, tell your child you’ll be seeing them later, and then leave. Tears are to be expected for one to three weeks as your little one settles down, but most children settle down soon as the day starts.


8. Talk to the teachers.


Knowing you have a trusting relationship with their new caregivers gives a child confidence amidst all the newness, so open communication between you and the teachers is key. You’ll also feel more settled in knowing you can share all relevant information with your child’s school, so as you’re getting ready for preschool try to schedule a chat with the teacher or principal to establish communication channels.


9. Encourage independence.


Try to help your child get a handle on doing things for themselves throughout your preschool preparation, such as washing hands (or using hand sanitizer), cleaning up toys, feeding themselves, even putting on shoes. Being able to do things for themselves – rather than relying on a grownup for everything – can help your child feel more confident and settled.


10. Prepare yourself.


It’s not only your little one who is getting ready for preschool – this is a big transition for you too. Remember that your child takes their cues on how to be and do in this big world from you. So, while there is some sadness in seeing your baby growing up into an independent child, hold on to the excitement and wonder of this moment.


Show your child how to work through feelings of anxiety as you both prepare for preschool, and focus on the fun, learning, and exciting experiences that are to be had.


Read more about how to prepare your little one with more advice from Crawford International here. 

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Why the Grade 9 Subject Choice Process is Important The transition from Grade 9 to Grade 10 is a pivotal moment in a South African student’s academic journey. It is during this stage that learners make subject choices that will shape their future career paths and academic trajectories. While Grade 9 students may not yet have a clear vision of their long-term aspirations, understanding the significance of subject selection can help them make informed and strategic decisions. Why Can You Choose Your Subjects in Grade 9? The South African education system allows students to select subjects in Grade 9 to create a pathway that aligns with their interests, strengths, and potential career aspirations. Up until Grade 9, learners follow a generalised curriculum, but from Grade 10 onwards, they start specialising in subjects that will ultimately contribute to their National Senior Certificate (NSC) qualification. The flexibility in choosing subjects is designed to help students focus on areas where they excel and enjoy learning, making their high school experience more meaningful and productive (Department of Basic Education, 2023). The Department of Basic Education highlights that subject choices at this stage have a significant impact on future academic and career pathways. Selecting the right combination of subjects can determine access to university programmes, technical and vocational training, or specialised fields (Department of Basic Education, 2023). Schools, including Crawford International, provide structured subject selection guidance to ensure students and parents understand the weight of these decisions. Why Does Subject Choice Matter? Subject selection has a long-term impact on a student’s educational and professional opportunities. The subjects chosen in Grade 9 will determine the courses available to them in tertiary education and the careers they can pursue. They influence eligibility for specific tertiary education programmes and career fields (South African Qualifications Authority, 2022). Choosing subjects without considering their future implications may limit university and career options, creating unnecessary challenges later on. For example, selecting Mathematics Literacy instead of Pure Mathematics can restrict access to certain degree programmes, particularly in fields like engineering, medicine, and actuarial sciences. Furthermore, making well-informed subject choices can enhance academic performance and motivation. When students select subjects that align with their strengths and interests, they are more likely to remain engaged and perform well. Conversely, poor choices may lead to struggles in comprehension and lower overall academic achievement. What are the Compulsory Subjects? In South Africa, the Department of Basic Education mandates that all students take a set of compulsory subjects to ensure they receive a well-rounded education. These include: Home Language (e.g., English, IsiZulu or Afrikaans, etc.) First Additional Language – (another South African language) Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy – Pure Mathematics is required for careers in science, engineering, and technology, while Mathematical Literacy is an option for students who do not require advanced mathematical skills in their future careers. Life Orientation – This subject focuses on personal development, career guidance, and physical well-being, preparing students for life beyond school. · One additional subject, such as Life Sciences or Business Studies, depending on school requirements (Department of Basic Education, 2023). What are the Elective Subjects? Beyond compulsory subjects, students can select additional subjects based on their interests and future aspirations. Some common elective options in South African schools include: Business Studies – Ideal for students interested in commerce, entrepreneurship, and economic principles. Accounting – Suitable for those considering careers in finance, banking, or auditing. History and Geography – Subjects that develop critical thinking and research skills. Information Technology and Computer Applications Technology (CAT ) – Important for careers in technology, programming, and digital communication. Visual Arts and Drama – For students with an interest in the creative arts and media industries. Each school may offer different elective subjects, and it is crucial for students to research their options and understand the requirements for their intended career path. How Does Subject Choice Impact Career Aspirations? Subject selection plays a fundamental role in shaping future career opportunities. Many universities and technical institutions have specific entry requirements that dictate the subjects a student must have taken in high school. For instance: Medical and Health Sciences: Require Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, and Pure Mathematics. Engineering and Technology Fields: Require Pure Mathematics and Physical Sciences. Law and Humanities: Prefer History and English at a high level. Business and Finance Careers: Benefit from Accounting, Economics, and Business Studies. In the South African job market, demand for STEM-related careers continues to grow, with fields like engineering, data science, and healthcare requiring Mathematics and Physical Sciences (Maharaj, 2020). Meanwhile, the creative economy offers opportunities in digital marketing, graphic design, and content creation, where subjects like Visual Arts and Information Technology play a crucial role (University of Cape Town, 2021). In addition to academic requirements, subject choices can also develop key skills that are valuable in the workplace. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills are nurtured through subjects like Mathematics and Science, while creativity and communication skills are honed through subjects like Visual Arts and English. Making Informed Decisions. Grade 9 students should approach subject selection with careful consideration and seek guidance from teachers, parents, and career advisors. Schools like Crawford International provide career guidance programmes to help students make educated decisions. Career assessment tools, aptitude tests, and consultations with professionals can offer insights into suitable subject combinations based on individual strengths and interests. Additionally, students should think about their personal learning preferences and long-term satisfaction. Choosing subjects simply because they are perceived as ‘easy’ or because peers are taking them may lead to disengagement and regret in later years. Instead, selecting subjects based on passion and aptitude will result in a more fulfilling academic experience. The Grade 9 subject choice process is a crucial milestone in every South African student’s educational journey. Thoughtful subject selection can open doors to exciting career prospects, while uninformed decisions may limit future opportunities. By understanding the importance of this decision and seeking the necessary support, students can confidently navigate this process and set themselves up for success in high school and beyond.
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Determining Your Child’s Personality Type Understanding a child’s personality type is crucial in supporting their development, communication, and learning. Every child is unique, and recognising their individual traits can help parents and teachers nurture their strengths while addressing their challenges. By identifying personality types early, caregivers can tailor their approach to education, discipline, and social interactions, ensuring that children feel understood and supported. In South Africa, where diverse cultural influences shape upbringing and education, recognising personality differences can be especially beneficial in creating inclusive learning environments. What is a Personality Type? A personality type refers to a set of behavioural traits and characteristics that shape how individuals interact with the world. Various theories categorise personality into different types; one of the most widely recognised is Carl Jung’s theory, which forms the basis for the popular Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) (Brown, 2018). While adult personality assessments are well-developed, children’s personalities emerge gradually, influenced by genetic factors, environmental experiences, and social interactions (Smith & Taylor, 2020). In South Africa, many schools incorporate personality-based learning approaches to accommodate diverse student needs, particularly in environments that embrace multiple languages and cultural backgrounds. Signs of Different Personality Types in Children Children display unique behaviours that can indicate their personality type. Some common personality distinctions include: Introverted vs Extroverted: Some children thrive in social settings and seek external stimulation, while others prefer solitude and engage in deep, independent thinking (Johnson, 2019). Logical vs Emotional: Certain children make decisions based on logic and rules, whereas others are more intuitive and empathetic, often prioritising emotions in their interactions (Morris, 2017). This is evident in South African schools, where subjects like Life Orientation encourage both structured reasoning and emotional intelligence. Structured vs Flexible: Organised children prefer routine and predictability, while flexible children adapt easily to new situations and enjoy spontaneity (Lee & Patterson, 2021). In South Africa’s evolving educational landscape, schools that incorporate inquiry-based learning, such as Crawford International, ensure that both structured and adaptable students thrive. Methods for Determining Personality Types Identifying a child’s personality type requires observation, reflection, and sometimes professional assessment. Some effective methods include: Parental and Teacher Observation: Watching how a child reacts in different settings can provide clues about their personality. Do they prefer solitary play or social interactions? Do they follow rules meticulously or question authority? (Williams, 2022). Personality Questionnaires: While formal tests like the MBTI are often used for adults, child-friendly personality assessments can help identify dominant traits (Harris & Clarke, 2019). Many private schools use such assessments to tailor learning strategies to individual students. Educational and Psychological Assessments: In cases where personality influences learning challenges, professionals may conduct in-depth evaluations to guide support strategies (Naidoo, 2021). How Child Personality Influences Learning Styles Personality plays a significant role in how children engage with education. Some key influences include: Introverted learners may excel in individual tasks but struggle with classroom participation. Teachers can support them by allowing alternative ways to express knowledge, such as written reflections (Peters, 2020). Extroverted learners benefit from interactive and discussion-based learning but may need guidance in focusing on independent tasks (Clarkson, 2018). Logical thinkers often excel in structured subjects like Mathematics but may need encouragement to explore creative expression (Ngcobo, 2019). Emotionally driven children engage deeply with literature and arts but may require help developing analytical skills (Mthembu, 2020). In South Africa, the integration of digital education tools, such as those used at Crawford International, allows teachers to personalise learning experiences, ensuring that different personality types receive the support they need. Parenting Strategies Tailored to Different Personality Types Understanding a child’s personality type can guide parenting techniques. Some strategies include: For introverted children : Create a calm, quiet space for them to recharge after social interactions. Encourage deep conversations rather than forcing group activities (Miller, 2019). For extroverted children : Provide opportunities for social engagement, such as playdates and extracurricular activities, to help them thrive (Singh, 2021). For logical thinkers : Encourage structured activities like puzzles and problem-solving games while also exposing them to creative outlets (Jansen, 2018). For emotionally driven children : Validate their feelings and teach them emotional regulation strategies to balance empathy with resilience (Patel, 2020). South African families often embrace a communal parenting approach, where extended relatives contribute to a child’s upbringing. 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