Tips and tricks from teachers for parents to help their child transition smoothly into kindergarten.
As the back-to-school season approaches, we know that a mix of excitement and a bit of nervousness might be in the air (especially for those of you sending your child to school for the first time). To help your child transition smoothly into this new and exciting chapter, we've put together some essential tips that every kindergarten teacher wishes parents would know. Luckily, many of us here at Playground Press are current or former kindergarten teachers, and we are here to put your minds at ease with these simple steps, so you can set your child up for success and smiles to start their school journey!
It’s Not “Just Kindergarten”
The days of taking naps, working on coloring pages, and hopping back on the bus before lunch are far behind us. Kindergarten students will be learning some of the most crucial life and educational skills that set the foundations for their entire life (yes, you heard me correctly!) Some of these skills include learning basic math, how to read, and how to write. Our job is to help your little ones succeed academically and ensure a smooth transition into daily school life. But before diving into academics, we focus on essential life skills and routines to ensure the classroom is a safe and fun place where they feel comfortable, so this learning can take place! To help accomplish this, here is a list of things every kindergarten teacher WISHES parents knew to help their child succeed from day one.
Practice Opening Lunch Boxes and Containers
One of the simplest yet most helpful things you can do is to practice having your child open their lunchbox and food containers. This might seem minor, but it can make a HUGE difference in their confidence and independence at lunchtime. Lunch is also an adjustment for many kids who are not used to needing to finish their meal in a certain period of time (often less than 30 minutes- and that includes finding a seat, getting settled, etc.) If they are waiting for a lunch helper to open something in a room full of other children needing assistance, this can eat away their whole lunchtime. So spend a few days before school starts talking about what lunchtime will look like, and letting them practice opening and closing their lunchbox, snack packs, and drink bottles. This way, they'll be pros by the time school begins!
Observe Changes in Behavior
As the new school year nears and begins, you might notice changes in your child’s behavior. These can range from excitement to nervousness or even reluctance. It’s completely normal! Take note of these changes and talk to your child about their feelings. Open communication can help ease their anxieties and make them feel understood and supported. Also don’t hesitate to talk with your child’s teacher! They chose this career because they love and want to help your child succeed and the best way to accomplish this is through open parent/teacher communication and knowing you are both on the same team!
Establish School Routines Early
Setting routines that mirror the school day will greatly help your child adjust. Start waking them up at the time they’ll need to get up for school and establish a consistent bedtime before the start of the school year. This gradual adjustment will ensure they are well-rested and ready to learn from day one. Consistent routines also help children feel secure and know what to expect.
Familiarize Them with the School Environment
If possible, take your child to visit the school before the first day. Let them explore the playground, walk the halls, and see their classroom if it’s open. Familiarity with the school environment can significantly reduce first-day jitters. Knowing where they'll be spending their days makes the unknown less scary and more exciting. Many schools even have an orientation day which allows the children to experience this. This is also a great time (whether in person or virtually) to connect with your child's teacher. Tell them all about your child, especially if you have any specific worries. It is valuable for teachers to know as much as they can about children before the first day so they can best help children succeed, as well as communicate with you about these items.
Involve Them in School Supply Shopping
Having your child play an active role in picking out their school supplies can make the process fun, empowering, and get them excited! Let them choose their backpack, notebooks, and other essentials. This involvement gives them a sense of ownership and independence about the upcoming school year. It also helps them to identify their belongings- yes it might sound crazy, but every year students come in and when their items are in identical cubbies with 20 backpacks or all tossed in a lunch bin, some students have no clue which is theirs. This can be an added stress to students and teachers, but can be avoided by having your child get familiar with their belongings before school. (Also have them practice the zippers/clasps on their supplies!)
Independence Matters
Encourage and help your child practice self help skills such as putting on their coat, blowing their nose, tying their shoes, and using the restroom independently. While your child's teacher will of course help them when needed, it can become overwhelming to students if they always need an adult to do these things for them and can affect their confidence. It also is difficult if children have to spend long periods of time waiting for an adult to help them if they have multiple other students to assist.
Creating a Smooth Transition
As you prepare your little one for the adventure that is kindergarten, remember that your involvement and support are key to their success. By practicing these skills and routines at home, you are helping to build a foundation that will make their first school experience positive and enriching (and believe us, this sets the tone for their attitude about school for years to come). The first day of school is just the beginning of an incredible journey of learning, growth, and fun.
Overall, just know that the goal of your child’s teacher is to support your child in every way, they are trained to handle both academic and social challenges, and they want to be on your team to communicate and have a successful year. So take a deep breath, and here's to an amazing start for our newest learners!
