A high quality, play-based Kindergarten program has long-term benefits for children’s academic and social skills and helps them to succeed in school and in life. Full day kindergarten is another step towards building a strong foundation for lifelong learning, in a nurturing, play-based environment. Starting in 2010, the Ministry of Education began phasing in universal access over two years. Full day kindergarten is available for all five-year-olds in the province.
In SD83, Kindergarten children are welcomed into their new school at the beginning of September by their classroom teacher and other key staff members using the Gradual Entry model. Students will attend in small groups and/or for shorter periods of time based on the schedule sent home to parents.
The gradual entry process, which is supported by SD83’s StrongStart educators, helps support a smooth and successful transition into Kindergarten. Teachers will be introducing children to classroom routines and procedures and helping the students adjust to the new social and emotional realities of school.
For information on how to register your child for kindergarten please click here.
For more information about early learning programs, please contact Allison de Boer, Early Learning and Child Care District Vice Principal .
Kindergarten Gradual Entry Frequently Asked Questions
What is gradual entry?
Kindergarten Gradual Entry is a developmental model of transition planning emphasizing the interconnected relationships among the child, teachers, family, peers and community that are developed across time (Pifiata & Kraft-Sayre, 2003).
In September, Kindergarten students are welcomed into school through the gradual entry model where students attend in small groups and/or for shorter periods of time, building towards full days over the first few weeks.
The Ministry of Education and Child Care has strategically allowed for fewer minutes of instruction in Kindergarten, which supports the gradual entry process.
Why is it valuable?
Starting Kindergarten is an exciting milestone and an important transition for children and families. Children have the most successful start to school when they are given time to build relationships, become familiar with their new environment, and adjust to new routines over time.
Gradual entry helps children:
- Feel safe, welcome, and connected at school
- Build positive relationships with their teacher and classmates
- Reduce feelings of worry or overwhelm
- Develop confidence and independence
- Settle into classroom routines and expectations
Gradual entry gives children and teachers the gift of time. During these first days, children have opportunities to connect with their teacher in smaller groups, explore their new learning environments, and adjust to the social and emotional changes that comes with starting school. This personalized approach helps every child feel comfortable, valued, and ready to become an important member of their school community.
What if my child was in full-time child care before Kindergarten?
Even children who have been in full-time child care will be entering a completely new environment.
Kindergarten involves:
- new adults
- new peers
- different routines
- larger groups
- different spaces (classrooms, gyms, libraries, music rooms, bathrooms, playgrounds, etc.)
- increased independence
- different schedules (e.g., start time, recess, lunch, dismissal, special classes like library, music, gym, etc.)
Regardless of previous child care experience, transitions can be challenging and all children benefit from opportunities to build relationships and become familiar with their new setting gradually.
What is the Gradual Entry Schedule?
Kindergarten gradual entry begins on Thursday, September 10, 2026, and continues until Friday, September 18, 2026. You will be contacted by your child's school regarding the specific times for your child's gradual entry before the start of school. Full-day Kindergarten begins on Tuesday, September 22, 2026.
Please note that for Kindergarten students, bussing services begin on the first full-day, Tuesday, September 22, 2026. For bussing information, or to register, please visit our Bus Transportation webpage (https://www.sd83.bc.ca/school-bus-transportation)
Downloadable PDF: Kindergarten Gradual Entry FAQ