Website for new students

THE Illawarra Transition to School Project launched a new website last week.

The website is aimed at making the change from pre-school to primary a bit easier for children and their parents.

Minister for Community Services, Aboriginal Affairs and Youth Reba Meagher launched the website at Bulli Preschool.

She said it offered practical tips for parents to help their kids make the most of their early schooling.

"Maybe you can draw a picture of you having fun at your new school to put on Grandma and Grandpa's fridge! Practice sharing and taking turns,' are examples of the website's advice to Illawarra's youngsters.

"It is never too early for parents to be preparing their children, so it is valuable to families who have children starting school next year as well,' Ms Meagher said.

"The website is an invaluable resource of tips for parents, teachers and even kids themselves.'

The site contains links to a number of resources for parents and their children, including the experiences of a Corrimal mum and her son, documented as an example of the kinds of things that might face parents and their children.

The Illawarra Transition to School project has been running for about two years, receives more than $70,000 annually from the Government, and even has its own mascot, "Billy Backpack'.