Helping your child make the leap from pre-school to primary school

THE National Parents Council will next month host a free information evening in Mallow for the parents of children making the transition from pre-school to primary school.

The event – which will take place from 7pm on Wednesday, April 10, at the Hibernian Hotel – is one of three taking place around the county over the coming weeks.

Clare Downey, the council’s early years services manager, urged parents to attend the session saying that the move from pre-school can be “one of the most important transitions that a child will make”.

“Through this initiative we can support you to support your child in making this transition a smooth one. The success of this can benefit a child all the way through primary school, providing better outcomes for them socially, emotionally and educationally,” said Ms Downey.

She said the session would allow people to meet and interact with other parents; explore the possible changes their child might go through; and learn how to support their child at home through play and “meaningful interactions”.

“Attendees will be given a brief overview of the primary curriculum outlining how and what their child will learn; assistance to prepare for new family routines; and meet local representatives from the Child Care Committee who will answer any queries about the Early Childhood Care Education (ECCE) programme,” said Ms Downey.

“A Special Education Needs Officer (SENO) from the National Council of Special Needs will also deliver an information session for parents and guardians on supports available to children with special educational needs,” she added. For more information and to book a place at the event, visit www.npc.ie.