With only two months remaining in the 2020-21 academic year, some of our students already are getting excited about making their big transition to kindergarten. Here are some tips to help families navigate this important next step:
Helping children:
- Visit the school. Attend an orientation at your child’s new school. Play on the school’s playground, or visit the school library.
- Practice “cafeteria-style” eating, and practice opening food packages. Also, allow your child to serve himself from bowls at home.
- If your child still takes a nap, shorten nap time a few weeks before school starts.
- Adjust your child’s sleep schedule several weeks before school begins. Remember that a child needs about 10 hours of sleep each night.
- Help your child choose a school bag, and label it with his/her name. Add a family photo to your child’s bag. Choose a place in your home to put things each night so they are ready for the next school day.
- Talk to your child about what will be familiar at kindergarten — and what will be new.
- Be positive! Your child takes cues from you.
Helping parents:
- Recognize that you are in transition, too. Expect to feel scared and sad — and excited, too. A child starting kindergarten is a big deal.
- Take time to plan. Think through food, transportation and schedule changes.
- Visit the school, and meet your child’s teacher. Don’t be afraid to ask if things seem confusing. Ask for a conference when needed.
- Get involved! Volunteer in your child’s class, or join the PTA or Parent Council. Remember that your attitude will determine your child’s attitude. Your positive support of school increases your child’s confidence and success.
Books About Beginning School: Look Out Kindergarten, Here I Come by Nancy Calson, Tom Goes to Kindergarten by Margaret Wild, When You Go to Kindergarten by James Howe
