What does my child need to take to kindergarten?
A shady broad brimmed hat. When choosing a hat for children, please ensure that it fits correctly, and shorten or remove the cord to reduce the risk of it catching during play or on equipment. Hats that can be adjusted at the crown are preferable for safety.
A non insulated lunch box containing healthy morning tea and lunch (and afternoon tea for the long day group). Please check that your child can open it.
A water bottle, preferably clear or translucent so we can monitor you child’s intake and which is large enough for the day (although we do refill).
Two cotton sheets for relaxation time ( one cot sized fitted sheet) in drawstring bag. These can be purchased from RHK.
A large Backpack/Bag – preferably with a zip that they are able to open themselves to encourage independence.
A full spare set of clothing in their backpack - including underwear
Please name everything - including sheets, hats, containers, clothes- as often children do have the same item.
Children should wear clothes that are non-restrictive, durable and can be easily laundered so that they can participate freely in all of the activities available including active physical play and messy play. For your child’s confidence we recommend they wear clothes they can undo easily (eg no belts or overalls) and remove quickly for independent toileting.
What should I send for lunch?
The use of fresh food is encouraged to reduce the use of packaging and for sustainability.
Lunch ideas can be found here -https://raisingchildren.net.au/school-age/nutrition-fitness/breakfast-lunches/healthy-lunches
We encourage ‘rubbish free’ lunches as much as possible to learn about the environment.
Water is all that is needed. (No poppers or pre-packaged drinks please)
Please advise staff as soon as possible of any special diets or allergies such as on enrolment, so that appropriate steps can be taken regarding action plans. We may notify all families of the need to restrict some food items from coming in such as nuts or eggs dependent on any children enrolled having life threatening allergies.
Will I have to pay fees when my child is sick or on holidays?
Yes, kindergarten fees are set based on children attending all programmed days and hence why fees are payable for the program, whether your child attends or not. Our kindergarten does not operate or charge fees during school holiday term breaks.
HOW CAN I ASSIST MY CHILD IF THEY EXPERIENCE SEPARATION ANXIETY?
Your child’s teacher can provide support to your child should they show any signs of distress when it comes to going to kindy or separating from you. Separation anxiety is a very normal stage of development and can be quite common. The teachers are familiar with navigating these issues. At Lady Gowrie, we have the same staff each day in your child’s group and this can help build a beautiful connection between child, staff, and yourself. Sometimes bringing along an item such as a small soft teddy bear, blanket or a family photo will maintain a connection with home and bring comfort for children who may feel sad in the early days.
ARE THERE EXCURSIONS THAT ARE INCLUDED IN THE PROGRAM?
Occasionally, but you will be given plenty of notice of these and any parent involvement required. We do have an interesting program of visiting productions and presentations for children each year that is included in your program such as Indigenous workshops, music, sea creatures and theatre shows.
CAN SOMEONE ELSE PICK UP MY CHILD FROM KINDY?
Yes, as long as that person is on your child’s Storypark enrolment under Authorised Nominee to collect and a copy of their drivers license is uploaded for us to cross check on their fist collection. If this is a sudden arrangement it is always best to call ahead to let us know and we can prepare your child for this change