Day to Day Routines

Sleep Routines, Mealtimes and Weather Appropriate Clothing

Every child has a different need for sleep and require different types of support falling asleep. Some children fall asleep outside in a pushchair, others in bed with a favourite toy or blanket or to a story being read aloud. While still respecting the routine and the sleep habits of other children in the group, the kindergarten and parents should consider together how much sleep is necessary for the child and what kind of sleep aids can be provided. Parents should keep in mind that during the settling in period, sleep in the kindergarten may initially influence sleeping patterns at home.

Food and eating habits diff er across cultures. Mealtimes are an important part of our cultural identity; these traditions form a large part of who we are and should be respected. The food within the kindergarten will usually represent the dietary needs and regulations of the country. It is important that you are clear about your child's dietary requirements before you start at the kindergarten so they can off er a suitable alternative.

Depending on your child's experience of climate, the process of getting ready to go outside may diff er from what they are familiar with. Being used to a warm and dry environment could create discomfort for the children while being dressed to go out to play in wet and cold conditions. The necessity to wear many layers before leaving home in the morning can cause stress even before arriving at the kindergarten and may make outside play a difficult experience. On the other hand, if a child is used to lower temperatures, they may feel overheated and uncomfortable when expected to wear heavy winter gear at the kinder- garten. Going out in the rain may be difficult for some children, as getting wet may not be a pleasant experience for them. Other children will thrive in wet weather and happily splash in puddles until they are soaked. The joys of outside play are an important part of learning and growing. The most important thing is for the kindergarten to understand what your child is used to in terms of climate and clothing so that they are prepared to work with you to make this specific aspect of the transition easier.