Big Step is a program designed to help parents and their children transition from Nursery to Primary 1. The program offers various sessions such as drop-ins, mindfulness, referrals to other services and parent sessions. These aim to prepare parents and their children for Primary School and cover topics such as healthy eating, internet safety, games, independence, and important information for starting school.
Session Topics
The mindfulness sessions are delivered by Mini Explorers, and are aimed at educating parents with the skills and tools to take time out and enjoy mindfulness activities at home to help with behavioural issues, anxiety and stress and promote positive attachment. The children’s sessions include sensory play, yoga and mindfulness. It helps them to engage and provides them with positive experiences, develops knowledge and promotes skills.
Healthy eating is a vital part of school life. We will deliver practical activities, talk about snack options, healthy lunch box ideas and school policies (allergies etc).
Internet safety is an essential skill as children will be exposed to the internet throughout their lives. It is important that parents are well informed to educate their children to use the internet safely. We will discuss local case studies, statistics, watch videos and equip parents with the knowledge to keep their children safe.
We will suggest interactive educational games, apps and activities to promote parent and child relationships. By playing games together children will develop concentration, interpersonal and fine motor skills.
Giving children their independence is an important part of transition. Parents will be taught how to give their children the responsibility they need to promote a successful transition into Primary School. Suggestions, tips and scenarios will be discussed with parents during this session.
We will provide parents with important information that is needed when starting Primary 1 such as; dates, deadlines and links to websites for free school meal forms and bus passes.
This will be an opportunity for parents to meet with the Moving Up team to discuss any worries or ask questions in a one to one environment.