A gentle start: supporting your child before school begins

Little Lyrebirds free local playgroup is a gentle and positive transition to primary school

The early years of a child’s life are some of the most important, but for many families, knowing how to support their child’s development before school can feel overwhelming.

From building confidence to developing social skills, those first experiences outside the home can shape how children transition into Kindergarten and beyond.

“Research shows a child’s brain develops most in the first five years,” says Principal Miriam Meaney. “Yet rising costs are making quality early learning out of reach for many families. We’re trying to change that.”

That’s why St Canice's Primary School has introduced Little Lyrebirds, a free local playgroup designed to give young children (aged 0-6) a gentle and positive introduction to learning.

Created for families in the Katoomba community, Little Lyrebirds offers a welcoming space where children can play, explore and connect with others their age, all while beginning to build the confidence and familiarity that makes starting school feel less daunting.

For children aged 4-5, the school also offers Little Lyrebird Learners, a weekly school readiness program that introduces early literacy, numeracy, arts and crafts in a fun, supportive environment. Run by experienced teaching staff, the sessions are designed to help children develop fine motor skills, establish routines and feel comfortable in a school setting.

Together, these programs aim to make the transition into primary school feel natural, not overwhelming.

Collage of happy children, children playing

For over 100 years, St Canice’s has been part of the Blue Mountains community, known for its strong focus on connection, care and inclusive education. Set within a unique natural environment, the school blends contemporary learning with opportunities for outdoor play, creativity and discovery.

It’s this sense of belonging that many families value most - a place where children feel known, supported and ready to grow.

Families interested in learning more about Little Lyrebirds and upcoming sessions can learn more here

Written By

St Canice's Primary Katoomba
Growth Through Love and Learning

22 Jul 2026
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FACEBOOK

26 May 2026
From Facebook
Little Lyrebirds is on tomorrow at St Canice’s Katoomba Catholic School! 💛 We look forward to welcoming families from 9:00am – 10:30am for a morning of connection and learning.

26 May 2026
From Facebook
Today, our school community came together to create a beautiful St Canice’s Sea of Hands at our front gate. 💛🖤❤️ Each coloured hand represents our commitment to RECONCILIATION — to truth-telling, respect, understanding and connection. Together, we reflected on the wrongs experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, remembered the Stolen Generations, and acknowledged the pain caused in the past. Today, we say Sorry. Tomorrow, we begin National Reconciliation Week with hope and commitment for a fairer future for all Australians. Our Sea of Hands reminds us that we all have a role to play in caring for one another and building stronger relationships together. #SeaOfHands #Reconciliation #NationalReconciliationWeek #stcaniceskatoomba #TogetherWeCanMakeAChange #CSPD