How to Prepare Your Child for The First Day of Kindergarten

I remember when my son first attended kindergarten. The excitement of finally being a “big boy” finally hit. No longer a toddler, he was ready to face the world, or so he thought. Looking back on that day, I think I had more of the jitters then what he did. To help ease those jitters for you and your child, discuss going to school and what it may be like. Boast confidence by telling your child he or she is a big kid now. Talk about meeting new friends, playing, and learning new things. If your child has an older sibling it’s a perfect opportunity to tell them that they will go to school just like their big sister or brother. Here or some other tips to ease those jitters.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Lot's of Hugs
• Lot's of Kisses
• Shoe box
• Camera
• Words of encouragment

1. Visit the school
   
   Many schools encourage the students as well as the parent to meet and greet the teachers. Not only does this ease your nerves, but it provides a familiar face for your child on the first day of school. During this meeting, try to obtain a class schedule of the day’s activities so that you can prepare your child in advance. Lastly, meet other parents to try to schedule play dates. I must admit, my son forgot a few spelling list throughout the year. So, it was great to call up a parent to get a copy of the spelling list or a missing assignment. Contact your school for dates and times.
2. School supplies
   
   My son likes nothing better then to pick and choose his own school supplies. Consider allowing your little scholar to share in the excitement by choosing his or her own items according to the school supplies. With so much to choose from, it’s a great opportunity to personalize items such as folders, pencils, backpacks, and pencil boxes with whatever your child is into. Currently, mine is into Bakugan, so he has plenty of Bakugan pencils and folders to get him started on a new successful year. Now in days, many schools list the school supplies from their website or in local stores. If your school provides a meet and greet day, drop all your school supplies off ahead of time so your child does not have to carry all the school supplies. In most cases, many teachers have a desk with your child’s name on it. If this is the case, you can have your scholar place the items in the desk. Take this great opportunity to boost confidence in your child.
3. Organize
   
   Organization is the key to success. Start to get in a routine that both you and your child can follow throughout the year. Set time aside for homework and play. If you pack a lunch, consider letting your child help you prepare a healthy selection. Most importantly, make sure your little scholar goes to bed on time. Like all parents, your want your scholar to do their best. So, sleep is a must.
4. Support
   
   On the first day of school, don’t be afraid to give lots of hugs and kisses. Speak about the positives such as meeting new friends and learning new things. Tell your child you will be waiting at the end of the day, or you will pick them up. When they return home ask about their day. Don’t be surprised if you hear “nothing” or “I don’t know” plus the occasional “I don’t remember”. Bring up cues such as did you meet any new friends, did you play with anyone, and what games did you play? That always gets the ball rolling for us.
5. Take a picture
   
   It’s great to take a picture of your little scholar on the first day of school. Not only can you look back on this exciting occasion but you’ll be amazed how much they change by the end of the school year.
6. A box full of memories
   
   I have to give credit to my son’s kindergarten teacher for this project. First you’ll need a shoe box or a box with a lid. Throughout the year your child will bring home samples of writing, test, coloring pages, and all around knickknacks. Choose a couple of writing samples throughout the year, and place in the box. In addition, add something that your child was into. For instance, if he or she was into cars, place a hot wheel car in the box. Pictures say a thousand words. Place pictures of family and friends. In my son’s box I placed, cars, marbles, pictures, projects, a letter from his grandparents, teachers, dad and I, and of course magic moon rocks (You place those under your pillow so you won’t be afraid of the dark. But they where really marble rocks. Shhh!). Be creative! Make it all your own. Seal the box and don’t open until your child graduates from high school. I’ll be honest, I’ve forgotten what’s all in the box, and my son has forgotten all about the box all together. What a treat it will be when he finally graduates from high school. Not only will he be excited about his future, he can reflect on his past on how far he has come.

Tips & Warnings

• Always give words of encouragement
• It's okay to call the school if you are worried.
• Communicate with your teacher throughout the year. This will help you stay informed.
• Consider volunteering in your child's classroom or on field trips.
• Surprise your child by eating lunch with them. It gives you an opportunity to see your child interact with other children his or her own age.
• Try not to worry! Your scholar will be okay