A Warm Welcome: Supporting Your Child’s Transition to SISOG Preschool

Father holding daughter at first day of preschool in Geneva

The first days of preschool mark a big milestone for both you and your child. It can bring excitement, curiosity, and sometimes a little apprehension.

At SISOG, we understand how important this transition is. That is why we have developed a thoughtful and nurturing adaptation process, rooted in the Swedish Preschool Curriculum (Lpfö 18), to make this journey as smooth and joyful as possible.

Guided by the Swedish Preschool Curriculum (Lpfö 18)

Our adaptation approach is built on the core values and principles of Lpfö 18, ensuring your child’s care, development, and learning are supported every step of the way.

  • A Holistic View of the Child: Lpfö 18 emphasizes the importance of seeing care, development, and learning as interconnected. At SISOG, we create a warm and secure environment through a gradual, parent-active adaptation process. By fostering trust, we help children grow into “active, creative, competent, and responsible people.”

  • The Child’s Best Interests and Active Participation: The curriculum prioritizes the child’s best interests and their right to influence and participate in their education. Our adaptation process respects each child’s individual pace, encourages their voice, and ensures they feel seen and heard from day one.

  • Play as a Foundation: Play is essential for learning and well-being. Lpfö 18 recognizes play as the foundation for development, imagination, problem-solving, and communication. A safe and supportive adaptation helps children engage in meaningful play, building the confidence they need to thrive.

  • Partnership with Parents: We believe in strong collaboration with families. Consistent with the curriculum’s emphasis on working together, we offer adaptation meetings and parent-active days that foster connection and continuity between home and preschool.

A Thoughtful and Flexible Adaptation Timeline

Adaptation begins even before your child’s first official day. It starts with an initial adaptation meeting, followed by three days of Parent-Active Adaptation where you accompany your child throughout their day. Afterward, your child will have their first independent day at preschool.

However, we recognize that each child is unique. Our team is flexible and responsive, adjusting the timeline as needed to ensure every child feels safe and secure in their new environment.

Ongoing Development Talks with your child’s Key Teacher will maintain open communication and help set meaningful goals throughout the year.

Our Nurturing Adaptation Process: Step by Step

The Key Teacher’s Role: A Trusted Guide for Your Child

Your child will be assigned a Key Teacher, who plays a central role in their transition and development. While the entire teaching team supports your child, the Key Teacher is your main point of contact and will:

  • Facilitate daily updates at drop-off and pick-up.

  • Schedule longer meetings if needed.

  • Communicate your child’s needs to the teaching team.

  • Coordinate with our Special Needs Coordinator if additional support is required.

  • Lead development planning and progress discussions throughout the year.

Before the First Day: Preparation and Partnership

  • Adaptation Expectations Document: Your child’s Key Teacher prepares a personalized plan based on your child’s needs and preferences.

  • Adaptation Meeting: This one-on-one meeting (without your child) gives you time to share important details about routines, dietary needs, and more. We will also complete the “Preschool Adaptation Questionnaire” together.

Individual Ongoing Documentation

Throughout the year the Key Teacher documents observations, development milestones, and summaries of relevant meetings with parents or external specialists. This ensures we have a complete picture of your child’s journey.

Parent-Active Adaptation: The First Three Days

We believe that the presence of a trusted adult is essential in early transitions. For the first three days, you will remain with your child at preschool, helping them explore and settle into the new environment.

  • Why This Matters: Your involvement builds trust and helps your child gain confidence. It also allows you to become familiar with our routines, spaces, and community, making the separation process smoother for everyone.

  • A Parent's Role During Adaptation: During these three special days, you remain your child's primary caregiver. This means actively participating in their preschool experience: helping with dressing, engaging in play and activities, introducing them to classmates and materials, and sharing meals at the communal table (a meal will be provided for you). You'll also assist with toileting or quiet time. If you need to step away briefly, please reassure your child. We kindly ask that you keep your mobile phone away during this time, allowing you to be fully present and engaged in this important bonding and transition period.

Day Four: Your Child’s First Independent Day

After the Parent-Active Adaptation, your child will experience their first day without you. Your Key Teacher will be present for the full day (until at least 15:00) to offer support, continuity, and reassurance as your child takes this important step.

Ongoing Communication: Development Talks

Your child’s Key Teacher will meet with you twice a year for Development Talks, which include:

  • A 30-minute meeting to discuss your child’s progress, interests, and goals.

  • Written reports based on observations and team input.

  • Team planning that integrates feedback and outlines the next steps in your child’s learning journey.

We Are Here for You

We are thrilled to share how SISOG supports children and families during this important transition. Our team is here to support, guide, and celebrate each step of your child’s development. 

Let us begin this journey together with warmth, care, and confidence.

a red thread which binds together all we do at SISOG
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Beyond the Classroom: SISOG’s Overnight Adventures