Starting preschool at a young age can give children a great start in life and set them on a path of lifelong learning.
The early years are when children’s brains grow and develop more quickly than at any other time. It’s the perfect opportunity to develop their confidence, social skills and love of learning. These early experiences help build strong foundations for future learning and wellbeing in a safe, play-based, caring environment.
In South Australia some children can start preschool at 3 years of age. This will expand over the coming years to include more families. To give children the strongest possible start, families and educators can work together to support any learning or social needs before school begins.
On this page:
Why start at age 3?
Research shows the early years are a critical time for learning, brain development and laying the foundations for wellbeing. More than 90% of brain development takes place before the age of 5. This is a great time for young children to learn and grow.
Starting preschool at 3 helps build their confidence, curiosity and important life skills. They can learn to:
- follow routines and gentle expectations
- feel confident in new environments
- find a sense of belonging before school begins.
It helps develop their:
- language and communication skills
- social skills such as sharing, cooperation, making friends
- emotional skills like managing frustration and excitement
- listening, thinking and problem-solving skills
- physical strength and coordination.
These early experiences support a positive transition to school.
Starting preschool at 3 builds strong foundations for learning, wellbeing and a sense of belonging during a period of rapid growth and brain development. It gives children a great start in life.
Learning through play
Children learn about themselves, others and the world around them through play, movement, talk and exploration. Play supports creativity and curiosity, helping children develop a love of learning.
At preschool your child may:
- play with blocks, puzzles, sand, water and art materials
- listen to stories, sing songs and explore language
- play outdoors, climb, run and explore nature
- learn to take turns and play alongside other children
- be supported to try new things and solve problems
- receive early support if needed before starting school.
Age-appropriate, play-based experiences are carefully planned by qualified early learning educators. They support learning while following children’s curiosities and interests.
Supporting your child
Early childhood educators understand children at that age are still learning how to separate from family members, manage big feelings and explore the world around them. It’s usual for some children to settle quickly and others to need more time.
Your child will be supported to:
- feel safe and secure
- learn through play and everyday experiences
- build relationships with educators and other children
- develop confidence at their own pace.
There is no expectation for children to have specific skills when they start. Educators understand that children grow and learn at different rates. Preschool educators:
- adjust routines to suit children’s needs
- support children who are feeling hesitant or unsure
- celebrate each child’s progress, big or small.
There is no pressure for children to reach milestones at a set time.
Getting ready for preschool
Starting preschool can be a big change for families. You might feel excited, unsure or a bit of both – and that’s completely normal. There are simple things you can do to help your child feel more comfortable, such as:
- talking positively about preschool
- arranging some visits prior to starting
- sharing any relevant information with educators
- practising small routines, like putting on shoes
- reading books about starting preschool
- sharing any happy stories from your own school days
- keeping goodbyes calm and reassuring.
These small preparations can help your child feel safe and confident as they start something new.
Starting preschool will likely mean some changes to your usual routine. Change becomes easier once new routines are practised and familiar. It’s normal for this to take time.
Practicing preschool routines can help you and your child work out what you need to do and how long things take. You can develop a plan that works best for your family before preschool begins.
It helps to:
- start with small steps, like waking up at the same time each day
- practise getting ready
- have simple routines (wake up, brush teeth, get dressed, eat, go)
- prepare what you can the night before (clothes, bag)
- use visual charts or pictures so children know what comes next
- be relaxed - you could make getting ready into a game
- encourage and praise your child as they learn what to do.
If you need to catch public transport, it can help to do some practice runs so everyone is familiar with the process. This will give you an idea of how long the trip will take and when you need to leave to arrive on time. For information on concessional fares, see Public transport concessions. If your child lives with disability, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) may be able to assist with transport. Ask your preschool about any existing transport options, like a school bus.
Transitioning to preschool
Preschool educators understand families are adjusting to new routines and a new environment. They know there may be a mix of emotions for both parents and children and are there to support you.
There are also some things you can do to help your child feel comfortable and engaged. Encouraging and praising them as they adjust to changes supports their confidence. It’s also important to build a relationship with preschool educators. When your child sees and hears you positively greeting, communicating and working with preschool educators, you show them preschool is safe and a part of their new community.
Working with your child’s preschool
Families and educators work best as partners. Sharing information about your child helps educators provide the right support.
You can talk about:
- your child’s interests and strengths
- how they are settling in
- ways to support learning at home.
You are encouraged to:
- ask questions (there is no such thing as a ‘silly’ question)
- share concerns early
- seek information and reassurance.
It’s important you feel informed and supported. Families are expected to have questions or concerns, especially during times of big change.
Open communication between families and educators helps build trust and strong relationships. It helps children feel safe and more engaged in learning.
Supporting children who need extra help
Some children may need additional support to settle, communicate or participate. Preschools work closely with families and other services to support children’s individual needs.
Support may include:
- extra time to settle in
- adjusted routines
- specialist support if needed
- translation/interpreting for non-English speaking families.
Every child has the right to feel included and supported. If your child needs additional support, preschool staff will work with you to help their learning and development.
Starting preschool at 3 gives your child’s learning a kickstart and helps set them on a path to reach their full potential.
For further information, including when Preschool at 3 services will be available in your area, visit Flying Start for Kids. You can also contact your local Preschool Director or Principal (visit Starting Blocks to find your provider).