Things You'll Need:
- Lunch that is easy to manage.
- Slip-on or velcro shoes
- Easily managed clothing
-
Step 1
When talking to your child about entering kindergarten, be sure to express positive thoughts. Do not let your child sense any worry or fear from you. Although you can tell your child that you will be thinking of him, do not dwell on how much you will miss him. It is better to say something like "I am going to be thinking about you all day today and wondering what fun things you are doing." If you are excited and positive, your child is likely to feel that way, too.
-
Step 2
Make sure your child's shots are current. Your school will be able to provide you with information on what immunizations are required for entering school. During the summer there may be several opportunities to immunize your child for a nominal fee as several organizations offer this service. It is best not to wait until the last moment to immunize your child for school.
-
Step 3
Your child may be required to bring school supplies to school. You can generally obtain the list of required items from the school website. Local stores that carry school supplies will also carry the list. Shop early, it is difficult to get everything off of the list at the last moment. Many schools hold a "meet the teacher" night, you can bring your child's supplies that night so that your child is not forced to carry a huge load of items on the first day of school.
-
Step 4
If your child's school does offer "meet the teacher" night, be sure you and your child attend. This will familiarize your child with his teacher and new surroundings. It will feel safer to take in a brand new place with a parent. Show him you are excited about his very nice teacher, new desk, etc. This is also a good time to discuss any special needs your child has. Also, if your child needs medication, has asthma, or has any special medical needs, this is a great time to drop off medication and information with the school nurse. You will need a doctor's note to drop off any medication at the school.
-
Step 5
Find out if your child will need lunch, lunch money or a snack. You do not want your child to feel left out on the first day of school because you did not know to pack a snack.
-
Step 6
Be sure your child has some basic academic skills when entering kindergarten. These basic skills include writing his name, counting to 20, ABC's, ability to hold a pencil and crayon, ability to name basic shapes and colors. You should be able to find some kindergarten activity and learning sheets online. These can be found on homeschooling sites or just basic school activity sites. You can go over these to ensure your child is where he or she should be.
-
Step 7
Your child will also need to be ready to behave in a socially acceptable manner. Make sure he is able to share, listen to basic instruction, keep his hands to himself, stay in a line, raise his hand to speak, and sit still when told to do so.
-
Step 8
It is important that your child is able to speak up when necessary. You will not be there to be his voice. He will need to speak up if he is being picked on or bothered by another student. He will also need to speak up if he is hurt or scared.
-
Step 9
Make sure your child knows that he must use the restroom every single time the class goes to the restroom, whether he feels the need to or not. If your child does need to go to the restroom during class, he will need to be able to ask. He will also need to be able to express urgency with a teacher who may not believe him. If your child does express urgency, is not allowed to go and has an "accident', make sure you immediately express your disappointment to the principal and teacher. Your child needs to know you will stand up for him when the teacher makes a bad decision and causes him harm or embarrassment.
-
Step 10
Talk to your child about basic conflict resolution. Tell him how you expect him to handle conflict in the classroom and in the playground.
-
Step 11
Send your child to school in clothing they can manage easily on their own. Teachers do not have the time to help all of their students dress. Clothing should easily go on and off. Also, clothing should be comfortable when playing in the playground or at P.E. If your child can not tie his shoes, send slip-ons or velcro shoes. Also, you may want to pack a light jacket. Many classrooms are cold, especially when the weather is warm outside.
-
Step 12
If your child is taking a lunch, make sure it is something they can manage on their own. Can they get the straw into their juice box?
-
Step 13
Finally, talk to your child about expectations. Your child is a "big kid" now, emphasize that they will be expected to act like one. Talk about consequences at home for bad behavior at school.
