Blue Mountains News

Blue Mountains Mayor, Councillor Mark Greenhill said: “Starting school is a significant early milestone and can be an exciting time for children and their families, but it can also be a little daunting and there can be challenges along the way.

“They say it takes a village to raise kids, and our village – the wonderful Blue Mountains community – aspires to support local families and ensure that all children start school ready to learn.”

This year Council has distributed 755 certificates through participating schools to the children starting kindergarten.

“The certificate is an acknowledgement from Council and the local community of this special milestone, and hopefully making them feel proud and excited,” Mayor Greenhill said.

There are numerous services across the Blue Mountains that support children and families to prepare for school and continue to provide support during all the transitions families may experience.

Some of these services include:

• Child and Family Community Health services working with parents to monitor developmental milestones
• Early Childhood Learning Centres supporting children’s physical, social and emotional development
• Playgroups supported by community and child and family workers providing social connection
• Transition to School programs provided by specialist children services navigating preparation for school

Parents can also find practical tips and advice on supporting their children during the transition to school and other milestones at the Australian Parenting website, Raising Children. 

For more information on Blue Mountains services for children and their families, go to the Blue Mountains Council Child & Family webpage.