Transition to Kindergarten

Overview

A number of pre-kindergarten events are planned for families and their child the year before kindergarten. These events are designed to ensure children have a pleasant transition from home to school. Families are encouraged to participate in all of the activities.

Once your child is registered for kindergarten, you will get upcoming event reminders and invitations from your child’s new school.

Events

If you have questions about upcoming pre-kindergarten events, please contact your school.

Kindergarten Registration (October)

Registration for kindergarten opens the week following Thanksgiving each year. Registering in October ensures families are invited to the pre-K activities held throughout the year.

Kick-Off to Kindergarten (October/November)

Families are invited to their community school for an information session regarding their child’s transition to school. There will also be information about the Early Years Evaluation – Direct Assessment (EYE-DA). Information will be provided about supporting a child’s development in these important months before starting school, about upcoming events, and families will have the chance to ask questions about school readiness and expectations.

Welcome to Kindergarten (January/February)

Families and children are invited to attend an exciting and interactive event at their community school. Both children and guardians will participate in learning related to school readiness skills, listen to stories, have a snack, meet soon-to-be peers and the kindergarten teachers from their school. At the end of the event, each child will receive a “Welcome to Kindergarten” bag filled with materials to help prepare for kindergarten.

EYE-DA Evaluation (October/February)

The Early Years Evaluation – Direct Assessment (EYE-DA) is an assessment that measures a child’s kindergarten readiness skills. All children in the province of New Brunswick entering kindergarten will participate in this assessment. This information will help guide families in preparing their child for school and help the school prepare relevant supports for each child. Families will be given an appointment when registering their child for school.

Kindergarten Orientation Day (May/June)

Pre-K children are invited to visit a kindergarten classroom at their school. Children will participate in kindergarten activities and will have the chance to discover what a kindergarten classroom is all about. While the children are visiting the classrooms, guardians will participate in school workshops given by literacy mentors, guidance counselors, nutrition consultants, and public health specialists. Also at this time, children will participate in a bus tour and a bus safety discussion with a member of the district transportation team.