Remember the Moments: The Weeks Before K2 Graduation
As the end-of-year holiday season approaches, many expat families in Singapore are also preparing for a major milestone: the transition from preschool to primary school. For parents of children in K2, this means preschool graduation and the exciting (and sometimes emotional) leap to what many little ones lovingly call “the big kid school.”
We’ve been there and, yes, some of us are going through it right now. Just a few years ago, you may have moved to Singapore, explored preschool options, and finally found a school that fit your child’s needs and personality. Over time, a new rhythm took shape: drop-offs, friendships, field trips, and festive days. Now, graduation is just around the corner. You may be asking yourself: How did time fly by so fast?
Preschool graduation is a moment for celebration, reflection, and pride, but also nostalgia and perhaps some nervousness about the inevitable changes ahead. So, what can you do in the final weeks of K2 to support your child (and yourself)?
Here are a few activities that can help nurture connection, boost confidence, and make the transition to primary school exciting and not (so) overwhelming.
Talk About Graduation and the “Big Kid School”
By now, many K2 children have a budding sense of what it means to "graduate." Like all change, it may feel exciting for some and uncertain for others. As the Greek philosopher Heraclitus once said, “Change is the only constant.” For kids, change is often easier to face when it’s talked about in a calm and encouraging way.
Try saying:
“You’ve grown so much, and now you’re getting ready for a whole new adventure at the big kid school!”
“We’re so proud of you, and your teachers are too.”
“It’s okay to feel all kinds of feelings when something big is about to happen. We’ll be here with you through it all.”
Avoid overhyping the transition (which can create pressure), but don’t avoid it either. Little check-in conversations here and there tend to be more effective than one big sit-down talk.
Make a Countdown Calendar Together
A visual countdown is a fun, practical way to prepare. You can buy a large wall calendar or print a simple version at home. Mark the final days of preschool with stickers, doodles, or stamps. Encourage your child to cross off each day as it passes.
Be sure to include upcoming special events like:
Children’s Day
Water Play
Field Trips
Graduation Rehearsal
Mid-Autumn / Halloween activities
This gives your child a tangible sense of time, structure, and something to look forward to, while also opening space for casual conversations about what’s coming next.
Capture the Memories and Stay Present
There’s something so special about these last few weeks of preschool. Try to capture a few moments along the way — a sweet goodbye at drop-off, a joyful pickup, a classroom party. But don’t stress about getting the perfect photo. These moments are fleeting, and your presence matters more than a picture!
You might also:
Record a short video of your child talking about their favorite preschool memory
Let them draw a picture of themselves with their friends or teachers
Ask what they’re most excited (or nervous) about as they move on to the big kid school
These mementos and memories will be treasures for years to come.
You’re Almost There!
It's completely natural to feel emotional; preschool graduation is a big step! BUT it’s also one of many beautiful beginnings your child will experience.
So congratulations to both the children and the parents. You've come a long way. K2 graduation isn't just a school milestone — it's a family milestone. And you’re navigating it with grace, love, and intention.
Enjoy these final weeks. Soak it all in.
And when the big day comes, don’t forget to smile — even if there are a few happy tears.
