A Walk Alongside Social Learning Story

Starting Prep is an exciting milestone, bringing new experiences, unfamiliar faces and opportunities to build friendships. For some children, making new friends comes naturally, while others may need a little more time, reassurance and support.

Making New Friends at Prep is a beautifully illustrated social learning story developed by Dianna.K to support children as they navigate friendships, social interactions and feelings associated with starting school.

Through simple, child-friendly language and engaging illustrations, children are encouraged to explore different ways of connecting with others, including saying hello, joining play, discovering shared interests, showing kindness and asking an educator for support.

This resource recognises that every child develops friendships in their own way and at their own pace. Rather than focusing on being Prep ready, the story celebrates children's existing strengths while nurturing confidence, capability and a sense of belonging.

This resource supports children to:

• Explore different ways of making new friends.

• Develop confidence in approaching and connecting with others.

• Recognise and navigate feelings of uncertainty.

• Practise kindness, turn-taking and inclusive play.

• Understand that educators are available to provide support.

• Recognise that friendships take time and everyone belongs.

Suitable for: Children transitioning from Kindergarten to Prep, families, early childhood educators and Prep teachers.

Downloadable PDF, featuring 14 illustrated A4 story pages.

Growing Confidence • Building Capability • Strengthening Connections