Arriving at kindergarten can be an emotional transition. These moments can set the tone of the entire day. Through careful consideration of this routine, giving it care and time, and purposefully dedicating spaces to the transition from home, it becomes a positive and enriching experience for children, parents, and teachers.

Jacqui Lee and her teaching team at Pakuranga Baptist Kindergarten offer insights into how they successfully support children to transition from home to kindergarten. They discuss key aspects of this transition and introduce the concept of moving at a ‘heart pace’.

Glossary:

Manaakitanga: hospitality, kindness, generosity, support – the process of showing respect, generosity and care for others

Whanaungatanga: relationship, kinship, sense of family connection – a relationship through shared experiences and working together which provides people with a sense of belonging

Rima: five

Waru: eight

Iwa: nine