Grade 1 is an exciting step. Your child moves from the play-based world of kindergarten to primary school. Knowing what changes helps you prepare them.
What changes
- More time sitting and listening, and slightly longer days
- More reading and writing every day
- New subjects such as mathematics, science and the world around us
- Homework, usually short and simple
- More independence: managing their own bag and books
How to prepare in the holidays
- Keep reading together every day.
- Practise writing their name and simple words, without pressure.
- Encourage them to pack their own bag.
- Talk about Grade 1 as something to look forward to.
In the first weeks
Some children find the change tiring. Keep evenings calm, make sure they sleep well, and set a short, regular time for homework. Praise effort, not just results.
Stay in touch with the teacher
If your child seems worried or finds something hard, talk to the teacher early. Small problems are easiest to solve at the start.
At Happy Buds, children move from our own UKG into our own Grade 1, so the change is gentle and the faces are familiar. See our programmes.
