Kwilena Preschool Merriwa

Every day is a chance to learn

Kwilena Preschool Merriwa

Our Kwilena preschool program is specifically designed for our children who are preparing for school and those children who are already attending kindergarten programs within a school setting. Our on-site Early Childhood Teacher alongside our amazing educators, creates exciting and educational programs to further their development and learning to prepare your child for school. We create a warm-welcoming learning environment that supports and promotes learning. We create different learning centres that are based on children's interests that will promote play and inquiry through intentional and unintentional teaching.

We explore visual arts and crafts, music and dance, science, maths, phonics and early writing through a range of activities and play. We aim to prepare your child for future schooling and work alongside schools that children already attend to keep consistency between us and your child's school program. Through communication with families, constant observation and assessment of our own teachings we are able to provide a programme to children that will best further their skills and development as they continue to grow and learn.

Our Early Childhood Teacher works alongside teachers from our sister services to create and implement activities and experiences for our programs. Our teachers work together to create these exciting programmes along with innovative ways of observing our children to ensure the best possible education and care are being provided to your child.

With our progressive and holistic early childhood education philosophy, we understand that each child has unique needs and interests. We provide the environment and tools your child needs to thrive to the best of their abilities. When we expose children to different environments and various learning experiences, we allow them to explore their self-awareness and gain a sense of the world around them. Once they leave Merriwa School of Early Learning, they’re fully prepared for the next stage of their young lives.

Tailored Learning Experiences

Our on-site Early Childhood Teacher, in collaboration with our exceptional team of educators, crafts stimulating and educational programs designed to enhance development and readiness for school. We pride ourselves on creating a nurturing learning environment that fosters and encourages learning through warm and welcoming preschool programs.
In the world of Kwilena, learning centres come alive, reflecting the diverse interests of our children. These centres are hubs of play and inquiry, where both intentional and spontaneous teaching moments unfold. These experiences ensure your child leaves our educational program ready for primary school.

Collaborative and Innovative Teaching

Our Early Childhood Teacher collaborates closely with educators from our sister services to design and implement enriching activities and experiences. These factors set our early childhood education programs apart from other industries. This collaborative spirit extends to our innovative approaches to observing and understanding each child, ensuring we provide the highest standard of education and care.

A Holistic Approach to Early Childhood Education

At Kwilena Preschool, we recognise and celebrate the uniqueness of each child. Our holistic educational philosophy ensures that we provide the environment and tools necessary for every child to thrive according to their individual needs and interests. By exposing our young learners to diverse environments and learning experiences, we foster self-awareness and a broader understanding of the world around them, fully preparing them for the next steps in their educational journey.

Preparing for Preschool

The Kwilena Advantage

Pre-compulsory Schooling: Our kindergarten program ensures a smooth transition into compulsory schooling, whether in public or non-government settings.
Settling Into Preschool: We offer guidance on how to help your child adjust to preschool life, ensuring a smooth and joyful transition.
Learning and Growth: Discover what children learn at our preschool and the myriad benefits of early education.
Preschool Readiness: From what to wear to what to pack for lunch, we provide all the information you need to prepare your child for preschool.
Maximizing the Preschool Experience: Engage with our staff, learn about our routine, and extend preschool learning into your home to ensure your child gets the most out of their Kwilena experience.

At Kwilena Preschool, we are dedicated to nurturing your child's love for learning and setting the stage for a lifetime of curiosity and growth. Join us on this exciting educational journey at Merriwa.

How to get the most out of preschool

Embarking on the preschool journey is a significant milestone in a child’s life, filled with new adventures, learning opportunities, and growth. At Kwilena Preschool in Alkimos, we believe in partnering with families to ensure that every child can maximise their preschool experience. Here are some key ways you can support your child's journey and make the most out of their time with us:

Build a Strong Partnership with Educators
Familiarise with the Preschool Routine
Extend Learning Beyond Preschool
Daily Conversations
Celebrate Achievements
Participate in Preschool Events
Create a Supportive Home Environment

1. Build a Strong Partnership with Educators

Open Communication: Establishing open and regular communication with your child’s teachers is crucial. It helps you stay informed about your child's progress and the preschool's activities.
Engage in Dialogues: Take the opportunity to speak with the staff during drop-offs and pick-ups. This can be a great time to share any significant developments at home that might affect your child's day at preschool.

2. Familiarise with the Preschool Routine

Understand the Schedule: Gaining insight into the daily routine at Kwilena helps you discuss the day’s activities with your child, reinforcing their learning and experiences.
Routine at Home: Aligning home routines, such as meal and nap times, with those at preschool can provide a sense of consistency and security for your child.

3. Extend Learning Beyond Preschool

At-Home Activities: Engage in activities similar to those at preschool, like reading together, arts and crafts, or simple science experiments. This not only reinforces what they’ve learned but also shows your interest in their activities.

4. Daily Conversations

Talk About Their Day: Encourage your child to share their experiences by asking open-ended questions about their day, what they enjoyed most, and what they learned.
Listen Actively: Listening to your child’s preschool stories with enthusiasm and interest encourages them to share more and value their experiences.

5. Celebrate Achievements

Acknowledge Milestones: Recognise and celebrate the small and big achievements in your child’s preschool journey. This could be learning a new word, making a new friend, or mastering a new skill.
Positive Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement to acknowledge your child's efforts and achievements, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment.

6. Participate in Preschool Events

Join In: Whenever possible, participate in preschool events and activities. Your involvement demonstrates your support and interest in your child's early education.

7. Create a Supportive Home Environment

Encourage Curiosity: Provide materials and opportunities at home that encourage exploration and curiosity, mirroring the learning environment at Kwilena.
Reading Time: Dedicate time to read with your child every day. This not only improves literacy skills but also serves as a wonderful bonding activity.

At Kwilena Preschool in Merriwa, we are committed to creating a nurturing and stimulating environment for your child to thrive. By working together, we can ensure that your child's preschool experience is enriching, enjoyable, and full of growth.

Helping Your Child Settle into Preschool at Kwilena, Merriwa

The transition to preschool is an exciting journey for both children and their families. It represents a significant step towards independence, but it can also bring about feelings of anxiety and uncertainty. At Kwilena Preschool in Merriwa, we understand the importance of a smooth transition and offer strategies to help your child settle comfortably into their new preschool environment.

Visit the Preschool Together
Talk About Preschool Positively
Establish a Routine
Create Goodbye Rituals
Encourage Independence
Bring a Comfort Object
Stay Connected
Positive Reinforcement
Be Patient

1. Visit the Preschool Together

Familiarise with the Environment: Arrange a visit to Kwilena Preschool with your child before they start. This allows your child to explore their new surroundings and meet their teachers and peers in a stress-free setting.

2. Talk About Preschool Positively

Build Excitement: Discuss the new experiences, friends, and activities they will encounter at preschool. Highlighting the positive aspects will help build excitement and reduce any anxiety.
Address Concerns: Listen to your child’s feelings about starting preschool and reassure them. It’s important to acknowledge their fears and provide comfort.

3. Establish a Routine

Consistent Schedule: Establish a consistent bedtime and morning routine well before preschool starts. A predictable routine helps children feel secure and reduces morning rush stress.
Practice Runs: Do a few practice runs of the morning routine, including the journey to preschool, to familiarise your child with the process.

4. Create Goodbye Rituals

Quick and Reassuring Goodbyes: Create a simple goodbye ritual, such as a special hug or a wave through the window. This can provide comfort and security.
Stay Positive: Keep your demeanour positive and reassuring at drop-off, even if you feel anxious. Children can pick up on parental emotions, so your confidence can help ease their worries.

5. Encourage Independence

Self-help Skills: Encourage your child to practice self-help skills at home, such as dressing, washing hands, and tidying up toys. This builds confidence and helps them manage at preschool.

6. Bring a Comfort Object

Familiar Item: Allowing your child to bring a small comfort object from home, like a favourite stuffed animal or blanket, can provide a sense of security in the new environment.

7. Stay Connected

Communication with Teachers: Keep in touch with your child’s educators about how they are settling in. They can provide valuable insights and suggestions to ease the transition.
Share Information: Inform the teachers about any significant changes or events at home that might affect your child's behaviour or emotions.

8. Positive Reinforcement

Celebrate the Day: At the end of the day, celebrate the fact that they went to preschool and show interest in what they did. Praise their efforts to make friends, try new activities, and follow routines.

9. Be Patient

Adjustment Time: Remember that every child is unique, and some may take longer to adjust to the preschool setting. Offer plenty of love, support, and encouragement as they navigate this new chapter.

Preparing to Send Your Child to Kwilena Preschool in Merriwa

Sending your child to preschool is a significant milestone that requires thoughtful preparation to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your child. Here's a guide to help you get ready for this exciting new chapter at Kwilena Preschool in Merriwa.

What Your Child Should Wear to Preschool

Comfort and Practicality: Choose comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing that allows your child to move freely and participate in activities, including outdoor play. Avoid clothes that are difficult for your child to manage, especially when using the restroom.
Preschool Uniform (if applicable): If Kwilena Preschool has a dress code or uniform, ensure your child's clothes adhere to these guidelines.
Spare Clothes: Accidents and messes are part of the preschool experience. Pack a complete set of spare clothes, including underwear and socks, in your child's backpack.

What Food to Bring

Healthy Snacks and Lunch: Pack a balanced lunch and healthy snacks for your child, considering their preferences and nutritional needs. Include fruits, vegetables, protein, and whole grains to keep them energised throughout the day.
Water Bottle: A refillable water bottle ensures your child stays hydrated.
Allergy Awareness: Be mindful of the preschool’s policy on allergens. Common restrictions include nuts, eggs, and shellfish. Ensure your child’s food complies with these guidelines to keep all children safe.

Drop-off and Pick-up Times

Arrival Time: Familiarise yourself with the preschool's schedule. Arriving on time helps your child settle into the day's routine without feeling rushed or left out of initial activities.
Pick-up Time: Be clear on the pick-up time and strive to be punctual. Late pickups can cause anxiety for your child and disrupt the preschool's schedule.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Transition

Label Everything: Clearly label your child’s belongings, including clothes, backpack, lunchbox, and water bottle, to prevent mix-ups and losses.
Discuss the Schedule: Talk to your child about what to expect at preschool, including what time they'll be dropped off and picked up, to help them feel more secure.
Goodbye Routine: Establish a simple, reassuring goodbye routine to make parting easier for both of you. A hug, a wave, or a special phrase can provide comfort and consistency.
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with any communications from the preschool, such as newsletters, emails, or notices, to stay informed about events, changes in schedules, or specific items your child might need to bring on certain days.

By preparing these aspects in advance, you can help ensure that your child’s introduction to Kwilena Preschool in Alkimos is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible, setting a positive tone for their preschool experience.

The Benefits of Going to Preschool at Kwilena, Merriwa

Preschool serves as the foundation of a child's educational journey, offering a plethora of benefits that extend far beyond academic preparation. At Kwilena Preschool in Merriwa, we are committed to providing a rich, nurturing environment where children can explore, learn, and grow. Here are some key benefits of enrolling your child in preschool:

1. Socialisation

Peer Interaction: Preschool provides a structured setting where children learn to interact with peers, fostering social skills such as sharing, cooperation, and empathy.
Diverse Environment: Children are exposed to a variety of cultures and backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and respect for diversity from an early age.

2. Emotional Development

Self-Confidence: Through positive interactions and accomplishments, children build self-esteem and confidence in their abilities.
Emotional Resilience: Preschool helps children learn to manage their emotions, navigate new environments, and adapt to various social situations.

3. Cognitive Skills

Curiosity and Inquiry: A play-based curriculum encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Foundation for Learning: Early exposure to literacy, numeracy, science, and the arts lays the groundwork for lifelong learning.

4. Language and Literacy

Language-Rich Environment: Immersion in a language-rich environment enhances vocabulary development and communication skills.
Early Literacy: Engaging with books, storytelling, and writing activities fosters early literacy skills, preparing children for reading and writing in school.

5. Independence and Self-Care

Self-Help Skills: Preschool encourages children to practice self-help tasks such as dressing, eating, and personal hygiene, fostering independence.
Responsibility: Children learn to take responsibility for their belongings and actions, an important aspect of personal development.

6. Physical Development

Motor Skills: Activities like drawing, cutting, and outdoor play enhance fine and gross motor skills.
Healthy Habits: Preschool promotes healthy habits, including physical activity and nutrition, contributing to overall well-being.

7. Preparation for School

Academic Readiness: Preschool prepares children for the academic demands of school by introducing them to classroom routines and foundational learning concepts.
Transition to School: Children who attend preschool often find the transition to kindergarten smoother, as they are already accustomed to a structured learning environment.

8. Creativity and Expression

Artistic Exploration: Through art, music, and drama, children express themselves creatively, fostering innovation and imagination.
Emotional Expression: Creative activities provide outlets for children to express their feelings and thoughts in constructive ways.

9. Community and Belonging

Sense of Community: Preschool helps children feel part of a community outside their family, instilling a sense of belonging and connectedness.
Parental Engagement: Preschool offers opportunities for parents to engage with their child's education, fostering a partnership between home and school.

At Kwilena Preschool in Merriwa, we are passionate about unlocking the potential within each child, providing a holistic early learning experience that nurtures all aspects of a child's development. By choosing Kwilena, you are giving your child a wonderful start on their educational journey, filled with discovery, growth, and joy.

Alkimos School of Early Learning

Kwilena Preschool Merriwa