Preschool slang

Okay, not slang actually used in preschool or by preschoolers, but rather a selection of slang terms I’ve picked up over the last several months of hanging around with Australian preschool parents.

Dob in – tell on or get someone in trouble; international synonyms include grass (UK), squeal or tattle (both US).
Example: “The teacher didn’t see Bruce pull Sheila’s hair, but then Narelle dobbed him in.”

Hoon – one who engages in disruptive or anti-social activity. Used as either a verb or a noun; frequently used in connection with small boys whooping it up on the playground, or teenagers driving too fast.
Example: “There he is, hooning along to the sandpit.”

Spruik(er) – someone who vocally and aggressively solicits business from passersby, akin to a tout (UK) or huckster (US). Can also be used as a verb.
Example: “Why don’t you walk down to the café and spruik our cake stall a bit?”

Tanbark – wood chips used to cover playground surfaces, to provide a softer landing

And my personal favorite:

Feral – same definition as usual, but used as a noun in reference to young children displaying temporary amnesia with regard to personal grooming or table manners.
Example: “When was the last time you combed your hair? You’re turning into a feral since holidays started.”


Illustration: some typically direct Australian signage: found hanging over the saltwater crocodile tank at Sydney Aquarium

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