Kindergarten 2016 Parent Workshop #2 Role of the EAL/D teacher, the School Counsellor and a typical day in Kindergarten

Role of EAL/D Teacher At Sherwood Ridge we have the expertise of a specialist teacher to support our English as an Additional Language/Dialect students. Their role is to: to identify EAL/D students to assess their language competence to determine the modes of delivery of the EAL/D programs to plan and teach the EAL/D programs to meet the needs of the EAL/D students to assess, monitor and report on the students in the EAL/D programs to provide professional support to teachers

Ho help your child Starting School use home language with your child if you are not confident in English Complete the same activities as English speaking students use both languages to explain concepts

Role of the School Counsellor Complete assessment for students that may be finding learning or class work difficult, or who may be finding it difficult to control their behaviours or emotions Provide recommendations to parents and/or teachers based on these assessments Can provide families with details of local services, programs or specialists if requested At times will assist students with counselling support for school based issues Assist in reviewing the support needs of students with a disability in mainstream or Support Classes

Referrals If your child is having difficulty adjusting to school the class teacher may talk to you about a “Referral” to the LEARNING AND SUPPORT TEAM. This team is comprised of the Principal, Deputy Principals, Teachers, Support Teachers and the Counsellor. Together this group looks at the issues your child may be facing and considers solutions to assist your child, with the possibility of a counsellor referral if warranted. Your signed permission will always be required for the School Counsellor to work with your child, for counselling or assessment. Please discuss any concerns about your child with their classroom teacher as a first step. Your input is always welcomed and highly valued, and you will be kept in the loop at all times.

Remember Every child will settle into school at different rates, and will have good days and bad days – that is OK Every child has strengths and weaknesses. As well as practising the things they find challenging, make sure you encourage them to do the things they’re good at and enjoy. Praise their EFFORTS Where possible, give them opportunities to develop and practise their social skills and friendships – family games, sporting teams and community groups are a great tool for laughter, fun and physical activity! Make time to really talk to and engage in conversation with your child each day - share in their excitements, sadness, fears and pride

A Typical Day in Kindergarten English Phonics Sight Words Reading Writing Talking & Listening Mathematics Hands on learning – practical activities PDHPE Creative Arts Music Drama Dance Visual Arts Developmental Play HSIE/History Science

Other School Activities Library Sport Assemblies Excursions Incursions Scripture Volunteering Fundraisers

Preparation for School This Year Ensure immunisations are up to date. If your child has an allergy or medical condition inform the school. Fill in an application for a bus pass if applicable. Contact 1800 227 774 Organise out of school hours care if applicable. Practice walking or travelling to school.

Preparation for School Some things you might need to buy School uniform Hat School shoes, socks and sports shoes Backpack Lunch box Drink bottle Raincoat Paint shirt Library bag

Preparation for School Next Year Getting organised at home Write your child’s name on everything. Make sure you have the school phone number. Ensure children are used to using public toilets. Read stories to your child about school

Preparation for School The night before the first day Lay out your child’s clothes, shoes and socks. Make your child’s recess and lunch and pop it into the fridge. Help your child to pack their school bag. Pack a spare pair of underpants, socks and a change of clothes in a plastic bag. Let your child know these are in their backpack in case they have any toilet accidents at school.

Preparation for School The first day Be confident about the first day with your child. Let your child dress themselves as much as possible. Tie back long hair or plait hair. Apply sunscreen and ensure that they have their school hat. Take photos!