How to Prepare a Child for Kindergarten

Nervous about sending your child off to kindergarten? It is natural for children to be anxious about starting school. But, as parents we can help them to prepare for this big event with a few basic skills. And, in doing so, help yourself to adjust to the idea! Give these few steps a try to help your child anticipate their big day!

Instructions

1. Begin the countdown on a calendar in the weeks before school starts to show your child how many days until the big day. Mark the days down so that they see "5 days left," then "4 days left," and so on. Remember, if you are looking forward to the first day, your child will do the same.

2. Make shopping for new school supplies or clothing fun. Even on a limited budget, it is possible to have a good time searching for just the right outfit or colored folders.

3. Start waking and going to bed early for about a full week before school actually starts. This will allow your child's body clock to be on track for the first day.

4. Have your child eat a healthy breakfast. If your child normally doesn't eat breakfast until they have been awake for awhile, don't push it. Let them eat just before leaving for school. It doesn't matter so much or in what order they get ready, just so long as they eat!

5. Dress your child in layers. Even in summer months, the classroom is sometimes cold. They can always take a light jacket off before recess.

6. Arrive at school on time. Not too early, since a long wait may increase anxiousness.

7. Reassure your child that you will be waiting on them after school. Physically show them exactly where you will pick them up, or where they are to go.

8. Leave your child cheerfully. Lingering to make yourself feel more at ease will only distract from your child's exciting adventure!

Tips & Warnings

• Ask the school if you and your child can come up one afternoon when classes are out to show your child around. This will diminish the fear of the unknown.