By Monica Xavier
Starting school for the first time – or even a new school term – can be a daunting experience for little ones. The unfamiliar faces and new environment often trigger separation anxiety, as children say goodbye to their primary caregivers and step into a world of independence. How, then, can they find comfort, confidence, and new friendships in this unfamiliar space?
At Little Seeds Preschool (St. Paul’s Church), we’ve discovered a meaningful solution: peer support through our Befrienders programme.
In this initiative, older students—especially those from our K2 (Starlight) class—are encouraged to befriend younger peers from the Playgroup (Blossoms) class. Teachers Mr. John Bilon and Ms. Xiaolu intentionally guide their K2 students to engage with their younger schoolmates during indoor and outdoor playtime, modelling values like empathy, kindness, and responsibility.
These befrienders play a part in supporting the social and emotional wellbeing of the young ones as they make sense of the world around them. In the process, the older children learn valuable skills such as listening, empathy, and basic conflict resolution – with guidance from their educators. This role boosts their confidence as they step into their identity as the “big brothers and sisters” of the school community.
Here are 5 ways how Befrienders can help ease the transition to preschool:
1. They offer emotional reassurance. Sometimes, a comforting hand or shared toy from an older peer can soothe nerves faster than an adult’s intervention.
2. They model positive behaviours. Younger children often imitate those around them. Seeing an older peer interact confidently with teachers or follow routines calmly can inspire similar behaviour.
3. They encourage inclusive play. Befrienders gently guide hesitant newcomers into group activities, helping them build friendships from day one.
4. They support routine and structure. As older children demonstrate routines like snack time or tidying up, younger ones learn what to expect—and what’s expected of them.
5. They develop empathy too. In supporting others, Befrienders build emotional intelligence and learn that kindness and patience have a powerful impact.
Starting preschool is a significant milestone for both children and their parents. The initial days may come with tears, hesitation, and big emotions, but these are simply the first steps toward growth. At Little Seeds Preschool (St Paul’s Church), we believe that no child should have to navigate this journey alone. That’s why our Befrienders play such a vital role in helping the younger ones feel seen, supported, and safe.
As your child learns to wave goodbye at the gate, make new friends, and explore their new world with growing confidence, take heart in knowing they are surrounded by a nurturing community—one where older peers model kindness, empathy, and responsibility, and where educators walk beside them with patience and care.
And while it might take time, rest assured: with your consistent support at home and the warm guidance they receive at school, your child will settle in. They will learn to love school, forge lasting friendships, and begin building the social and emotional foundations that will serve them for life.
To find out more about our preschools, visit https://littleseeds.edu.sg/.
Monica Xavier is the Principal of Little Seeds Preschool (St. Paul’s Church)
