Transitions within the Daily Life of a Classroom

Teachers arrange daily schedules in a predictable and developmentally appropriate sequence.  Schedules will be posted in the classroom visible to parents and staff.  Picture schedules will be visible for children to help them understand and communicate what happens throughout their day.  Schedules minimize the number of transitions when possible.  Transition times are indicated, such as clean up, handwashing and toileting and are designated on the daily schedule.  For example, transition to and from nap or outside, time to clean up or set up will be indicated on the schedule.  Children will be alerted before and supported during transition periods.  Often teachers will sing a clean-up song or assist during clean up.  Ample time and recognition of individual needs will be supported and addressed with each transition period.  Although teachers will generally stick to the same routine from day to day, they will be flexible with the length of time of events.  Teachers will gauge the children’s interests and energy levels to dictate the length of time with each activity.  See daily schedules under Classroom Experience and Policies section.

MOVING UP! Currently Enrolled Children Transitioning to a New Classroom

Typically a child will remain in a given classroom for at least 10 months to a year before moving to the next age classroom. Mostly, there are openings and opportunities for groups of children to transition to the next age level in June and September of each year.   Children are grouped by set age ranges and group size.  Classes are also formed with an attempt for gender balance.  Administration and Teachers work together to review children’s strengths, friendships and learning styles. Parents may also share their thoughts and desires for their child’s transition during parent/teacher conferences in the spring of each year.  Placement of a child takes into consideration the following: age, gender, social connections, parent input, teacher observations, and learning styles. The integrity of the process is important if we are to successfully place students in classes so that every class is well balanced. When possible a classroom staff member may move with a familiar group of children to the next age group. A transition plan will be put in motion to best acclimate the child to the new classroom once the placement has been determined.

FLY! Children and Families Leaving UNOW to a New Beginning

At any point in the child’s experience at UNOW, there will eventually come a time when they will move to another program or on to Kindergarten.  UNOW is dedicated to working with families in preparing children for these life changes.  Generally, teachers will meet with the child’s family and together create a transition plan that will support the child in the process.  Each year UNOW will host a panel discussion about the transition to Kindergarten.  Conversation about the transition to Kindergarten will also take place during the spring Parent and Teacher conferences. 

If a family is moving at any point in the year, the teachers and family will meet to figure out a support plan for the child prior to the child leaving.  We always want to make sure there is a positive way for children to say good-bye to friends and teachers and prepare for a positive outlook for their new adventure in a new place. See Tuition Fees in General Program Policies section for details about early withdrawal.