Parents of pupils at KNUST Preschool have been urged to prioritise their presence, encouragement and partnership with teachers as their children transition from preschool to primary school.

Speaking as the guest speaker at the 2026 graduation ceremony for 155 pupils of KNUST Preschool, senior counselling psychologist at the KNUST Counselling Centre (KCC), Mrs Bernice Ofosuhene Peasah, described parents as a child's first and most influential teachers. She said the values, confidence and resilience children develop begin long before they enter a classroom.

"Before a child walks into a classroom, they are already learning. They learn from the voices they hear, the faces they see and the atmosphere at home. Everything you do is a lesson for a child," she said.

Addressing parents on the theme, "Stepping up to New Beginnings: The Role of a Parent," she said every interaction at home contributes to a child's development.

Mrs Peasah explained that the transition to primary school often brings emotional and social challenges, including anxiety, fear of unfamiliar environments, separation from preschool teachers and the demands of a more structured learning environment. While these experiences are normal, she said, parental support is crucial to helping children adjust successfully. She therefore encouraged parents to be physically and emotionally available to their children, emphasising that quality time is more valuable than material gifts.

"One of the greatest gifts a parent can give a child is not money, toys or gadgets. It is time: time to sit with them, listen to them, help them with their homework and encourage them," she said.

According to Mrs Peasah, children may not remember every gift they receive, but they will remember parents who attended school events, listened to their stories, celebrated their achievements and supported them during difficult moments.

She urged families to create conducive learning environments at home by reducing distractions, encouraging reading and writing, and showing genuine interest in their children's daily learning. She also expressed concern over increasing screen time among young children, cautioning that excessive reliance on digital devices could undermine healthy learning habits if not properly managed.

Mrs Peasah further stressed that education is a shared responsibility between schools and families.

"Children achieve their best outcomes when parents and teachers work together. Education is not the sole responsibility of schools, nor is it the sole responsibility of parents. It is a partnership," she said.

She called on parents to maintain positive relationships with teachers, reinforce classroom learning at home and communicate regularly with schools to support their children's development.

Mrs Peasah also highlighted the importance of nurturing children's emotional wellbeing, urging parents to avoid comparing children with their siblings or classmates, placing excessive pressure on academic performance or speaking negatively about teachers in their presence.

Instead, she encouraged parents to build emotional resilience by helping children navigate setbacks and disappointments.

"Teach your child that it is okay not to feel okay all the time. Teach them that disappointment and fear are part of life and help them learn how to bounce back."

She advised parents to allow children to make mistakes and gradually develop independence rather than solving every problem on their behalf.

The Head of KNUST Preschool, Mrs Olivia Ayensu, thanked parents for their unwavering support, describing them as their children's "first and most important teachers." She also expressed appreciation to members of staff for their dedication, patience and commitment to nurturing the children.

Mrs Ayensu commended the graduating pupils for the remarkable growth they had demonstrated during their years at the school and encouraged them to continue learning, dreaming and shining as they begin primary education.

Chairperson of the KNUST Basic Schools Board, Professor Rosemary Boateng Coffie, congratulated the graduating class and reminded parents that their continued involvement would remain critical to their children's success as they progressed to primary school.

"To our parents, as you step into these new beginnings, be the anchor. Primary school will bring new challenges, but your home must remain a safe place where they can rest, talk and be calm unconditionally. Your involvement is the single biggest predictor of your child's success," she said.

She encouraged parents to continue reading with their children, asking about their school day and modelling values such as resilience, kindness and curiosity.

The Oforikrom Municipal Chief Executive, Anwel Sadat Ahmed, who attended the ceremony, congratulated the graduating pupils on reaching an important milestone and reaffirmed the municipality's commitment to supporting KNUST Preschool whenever necessary.

The graduation ceremony celebrated 155 pupils who completed their preschool education and are preparing to begin primary school.

The event also featured colourful performances by the graduating class, including poetry recitals, drama and traditional dances such as Adowa, Agbadza, Bawa and Kpanlogo, marking the successful completion of their preschool education.

Story: Abigail Ofori   Photos: Isaac Kwaku Duah