🏫 Transition to Kindergarten Workshop
Big Changes, Bright Beginnings: Preparing for the First Day 🗺️
Your roadmap to a confident and successful entry into the Ontario school system
Join us for a 1-hr virtual workshop empowering you with the strategies, skills, and advocacy tools needed to help your child thrive in their first year of school.
Starting kindergarten is a major milestone, but for a child with autism, the transition to a structured classroom can feel daunting. You might wonder if your child is "ready" or how they will handle new routines, big groups, and higher expectations. This seminar is designed to turn that uncertainty into a clear plan of action. We’ll help you bridge the gap between home and school, teaching you how to identify essential readiness skills and build a collaborative team with your new school board to ensure your child’s potential is recognized from day one.
What You’ll Learn:
✅ Readiness Skills: Pinpoint which skills to focus on now—like sitting, following instructions, and communication—to make the transition easier.
✅ Proven Strategies: Learn to use visual schedules, timers, and social narratives to ease anxiety and improve focus.
✅ The School Shift: Understand the key differences between "Entry to School" programs and the Kindergarten environment.
✅ Goal Setting: Learn how to set achievable goals and use tools like First-Then boards to ensure your child follows through on tasks.
✅ Advocacy & Collaboration: Master the registration process and learn how to drive collaboration with teachers and school staff.
✅ Gradual Transitions: Discover processes to facilitate a slow, smooth move into the classroom rather than a sudden change.
Who Should Join?
👨👩👦 Caregivers of children preparing to enter Kindergarten who want to ensure their child’s academic and social learning starts on the right foot.
Eligibility
✅ Must be a caregiver of a child with autism.
✅ The individual must be registered with the Ontario Autism Program (OAP) and have a valid OAP registration number.
💻 Access to an internet connection and a device with a camera/microphone for virtual meetings.
🏡 A private space for participating in virtual sessions (if possible).
Why Attend
Start Strong. A successful transition to kindergarten is the foundation for your child’s long-term academic and social success.
🎒 Build Confidence: Go into the first day of school feeling prepared rather than overwhelmed.
🛠️ Evidence-Based Tools: Gain practical resources like transition warning tips and communication strategies used by professionals.
🤝 Form a Team: Learn how to leverage school supports and advocate for your child’s educational rights effectively.
💰 Cost: It’s FREE for OAP families
🧑🏫 Led by ABA-trained facilitators with oversight by an RBA
