Stepping into kindergarten

Why kindergarten is the foundation for future learning

When it comes to education, a solid beginning can set up a child for a lifetime of positive and rewarding learning experiences.

Kindergarten is an important step for young children as it is one of the first educational settings they will experience and it helps set a strong base for years of learning to come.

During their time at kindergarten each child continues to extend and build on their creativity, literacy, numeracy, language and physical skills that parents, as a child’s first teacher, establish. At BCYF kindergartens, these skills are further developed through play-based learning experiences.

A nurturing kindergarten environment improves children’s health and wellbeing, and it helps them to develop strong social skills and encourages a love of learning.

Information provided by the Victorian Department of Education and Training also indicates that children who attend a kindergarten program are more independent and confident, and are more likely to make a smooth transition to primary school.

Registrations for three and four-year-old kindergarten services for 2021 with BCYF (Barwon Child, Youth & Family) are now open.

BCYF Director, Early Years Barb Hayes says kindergarten is an important step in a child’s learning journey, and builds on the introduction to the child’s learning established by parents and carers.

“At BCYF we understand how important a child’s early years are. Our Kindergartens and Early Learning Centre offer an educational experience that is inspiring, innovative, inclusive and fun,” she says.

“Our qualified and caring BCYF educators encourage learning and curiosity through experiences, such as exploring the natural world, being exposed to new ideas and solving problems.

“By providing an environment that is fun, exciting and safe, our kindergarten children are able to gain confidence and learn about the world around them, and how to interact with others – which is invaluable to ensure better outcomes for their future.”

BCYF operates four kindergartens in the Geelong area – Belmont Community Kindergarten, St Albans Park Kindergarten, Greenville Kindergarten (Grovedale) and Flinders Kindergarten (Lara), as well as three kindergartens in Colac – Colac East Kindergarten, Winifred Nance Kindergarten and Wydinia Kindergarten and Early Learning Centre.

Kindergarten registration is open for children turning three or four before April 30, 2021.

To register for kindergarten visit bcyf.org.au or phone 5226 8900 for more information.