Getting the kids to kindergarten need not be a drag.

A school-based pilot program that helps preschool children get ready for kindergarten has expanded to other schools in British Columbia.

Under the program, parents, caregivers and their four- and five-year-olds attend an orientation at their neighbourhood school, where families receive a Kindergarten Welcome Bag and learn about activities they can do together at home over the summer.

Twenty-four elementary schools in six B.C. school districts are participating in the pilot program this year – up from three schools last year.

“Starting school is exciting, but it can also be a little bit scary,” B.C. Education Minister Shirley Bond said.

 “Parents and caregivers can make the transition easier by introducing children to the kinds of activities that students do in a kindergarten class. The Welcome to Kindergarten program is a tool families can use to help children get the best possible start in school.”

The Ministry of Education has provided the Learning Partnership with $20,000 for the pilot, which began in the spring of 2005 at three Vancouver elementary schools.

The Learning Partnership is a national, not-for-profit organization that brings together business, education, government, labour, policy makers and the community to develop partnerships that strengthen public education in Canada.

“More than ever before, it’s important that we reach out to parents and teachers and help provide them with the necessary tools to make sure children are given the opportunities to succeed at school,” said Veronica Lacey, president and CEO of the Learning Partnership, in a ministry release.

“Welcome to Kindergarten is a wonderful program that engages preschool children and their parents as they embark on their journey of lifelong learning in our public education system.”

 For info on participating schools, visit www.bced.gov.bc.ca.