OurBlog

So, Grade R is now compulsory, thanks to the “Bela Bill”. So now what? The good news is that you have more freedom than ever before when choosing where your child experiences this important first year of formal schooling. Whether you decide on a large or small school, you get to decide the environment in which they’ll thrive. This means you can still let them be little for a bit longer, all while giving them a solid foundation for their future. Let’s face it—there’s plenty of time ahead to sit at desks, wear uniforms, and deal with homework.

As moms, we face tons of decisions every day—especially around education. Sometimes it feels like we’re juggling everything and still figuring out dinner. We’ve got your back. Here are key facts to help you choose the right Grade R year for your little one.

1. Grade R: A fresh start, no matter the school size

   The “Bela Bill” makes Grade R compulsory at all schools, big or small. A smaller, more personalized environment can offer individual attention and ensure your child is seen and nurtured every day.

2. Keeping their childhood innocence a bit longer

   Grade R is the perfect time to explore, play, and build social–emotional skills. A play-based setting lets children grow at their own pace without the pressure of “big school” just yet.

3. Stronger focus on social & emotional growth

   Smaller classes help teachers guide first friendships, model empathy, and support conflict resolution—building confidence for the years ahead.

4. Flexibility & creativity in teaching (within CAPS)

   Smaller schools can bring the curriculum to life through hands-on activities and real-world exploration—so children don’t just memorize, they understand.

5. Building confidence for the big-school leap

   With individualized attention, children develop self-esteem and independence. When they move to a larger school, they carry a strong sense of readiness.

6. A solid academic foundation through individualized learning

   Every child learns differently. Smaller classes make it easier to spot strengths and support needs, so early literacy and numeracy grow in meaningful ways.

At Candi’s Playschool, we’re setting the stage for a confident future

The “Bela Bill” may make Grade R compulsory, but it also gives you the freedom to choose where your child will thrive. The right choice is the one that feels safe, supportive, and exciting. A strong start in Grade R isn’t only about academics—it’s about confidence, social skills, and a love for learning.

“A smaller learning environment, like Candi’s Playschool, provides Grade R learners with the individual attention they need to build a strong foundation in literacy and numeracy. With a nurturing setting and tailored support, young learners gain confidence and essential skills that set them up for success in formal schooling. At EdShed, we love seeing early-education spaces that prioritize interactive and engaging learning—exactly what young minds need to thrive!”

“At Candi’s Playschool, I truly enjoy teaching in a smaller setting, allowing me to provide more personalized attention to each student. In Grade R, I concentrate on all aspects of learning, with a special emphasis on reading skills, ensuring my learners are well-prepared for ‘big school.’ Helping children develop their reading abilities is one of my greatest passions.”

Watching your baby grow and learn new skills is one of the greatest joys of early childhood. Those little milestones — the first smile, rolling over, sitting, crawling, and those long-awaited first steps — are all part of your baby’s exciting journey of discovery.

At our school, we celebrate each milestone with joy (and sometimes a few happy tears!), but we also remind parents that every child develops at their own pace. Milestones aren’t a race — they’re gentle reminders of progress, exploration, and growth.

Here are some practical ways you can help your baby reach their milestones at home — while having fun and bonding along the way!

---

3–6 Months: Building Strength and Curiosity

Milestones: Holding head up, reaching for toys, rolling from tummy to back.

• Give your baby tummy time every day — place a mirror or colourful toy nearby to keep them engaged.
• Sing songs and gently move their arms and legs to the rhythm — this helps with coordination.
• Talk, smile and make eye contact — babies learn through connection!

6–9 Months: Exploring and Moving

Milestones: Sitting without support, starting to crawl, responding to name.

• Create a safe floor space with soft mats for crawling and exploring.
• Encourage movement by placing toys just out of reach.
• Read simple board books and name the pictures — your voice builds their understanding of language.

9–12 Months: Standing Tall and Saying Words

Milestones: Pulling up, standing, first steps, babbling simple words.

• Hold their hands and walk together — lots of cheering helps build confidence!
• Stack blocks, roll balls, or play peek-a-boo to strengthen muscles and coordination.
• Talk about everything you do — “We’re washing your hands,” “Look, a red ball!” — this grows vocabulary naturally.

A Gentle Reminder

Every baby is wonderfully unique. If your little one isn’t doing exactly what another child is, that’s perfectly okay. Some focus on movement first, others on communication — both are signs of healthy growth.

What matters most is giving your baby love, time, and opportunities to play and explore. With patience and encouragement, every child will reach their milestones — in their own beautiful time.

“Start children off on the way they should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”