A guide for newcomer families
Starting school in a new country can feel exciting and overwhelming. We are here to help your child feel safe, seen, and supported.
Here, you'll find information about:
- What to expect in Kindergarten
- How DSBN can support your child
- Why your first language matters
- Who to contact for help
What Kindergarten looks like
- Children learn through play, inquiry, relationships, and routines
- Your child will build skills in language, early reading, math, self-regulation, and social interaction
- Teachers and early childhood educators observe, listen, and respond to what children know and need
- Families receive updates about learning throughout the year
What can help your child in the first week
- A familiar routine
- Comfort items (e.g., favourite toy or book)
- Knowing who their caring adults are
- Hearing and using their home language
You can help the teacher by sharing:
- How to say your child’s name correctly
- What helps your child feel calm and comfortable, what brings them joy
- Important family, cultural, or creed/faith practices
- Any previous school or child care experiences
Keep speaking your first language
Your child's first language is a strength. It supports identity, family connection, and learning.
- Talk, read, sing, and tell stories in the language you know best
- Share key words, names, celebrations, and traditions with the school
- Let the school know how your child communicates best
- Learning English does not mean losing your home language
Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS)
The SWIS program is a partnership between the YMCA of Niagara, Immigration,
Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), District School Board of Niagara and
Catholic District School Board of Niagara.
SWIS workers are a link between newcomer families, the school and the community.
Click here: SWIS and Wellness Contacts 2025-26
Working together as partners
We see family-school relationships as a partnership. You know your child in important ways, and we want to learn from you.
How the school can support your child
- Welcoming routines and caring relationships
- Language support and visual supports in the classroom
- Connections to school staff and community services
- Ongoing communication about your child’s growth
What to bring:
- Proof of your child’s age, such as a birth certificate or passport
- Proof of your address in Niagara, such as a rental agreement or utility bill
- Family and emergency contact information
- Any school records, immunization records, or other documents you have available
If you do not have every document yet, your school can still help you get started and will let you know what can be shared later.
Who can help?
- Your child’s classroom educator
- The school Principal or Vice-Principal
- DSBN Welcome Centre
- Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS)
- Multi-Language Resource Coach who supports the school