Getting Ready for Kindergarten

Going to kindergarten is a very big event! Probably the only other event that will eclipse the first day of kindergarten in your child's school career will be going to college!

Here are some ways to help your child have an easier transition to kindergarten:

1. Visit the school ahead of time if at all possible. It is great if your child can meet his/her new teacher and see the classroom. It is fine if the classroom is still being set up! Little children need to know that there is a process of getting things ready.

2. Go to the playground and let your child play there. This is your child's new park! Let him/her enjoy it and try out the equipment.

3. If your child will walk to school, walk there as often as possible.

4. If your child is riding a bus, walk to the bus stop frequently.

5. Read books with your child about the first day of kindergarten. There are many books available! Here are some of my favorites:

THE NIGHT BEFORE KINDERGARTEN by Natasha Wing

I really enjoy reading books about the night before anything! I think it helps children get prepared for what will happen on a special day.

MISS BINDERGARTEN GETS READY FOR KINDERGARTEN by Joseph Slate

As a teacher, I was always in awe of a dog who could get a classroom set up in one hour! It always took me many days. There are so many interesting things in all the Miss Bindergarten books.

LOOK OUT KINDERGARTEN, HERE I COME by Nancy Carlson

This is a nice story of a mom telling her son about how great kindergarten will be!

THE KISSING HAND by Audrey Penn

If you think your child will have any separation issues, this is the book for you! Chester Raccoon and his mom have a special way of reminding him "Mother loves me".