Your child is starting Kindergarten, how exciting! They will meet new friends, learn new things, and…have a completely different schedule. This can be a difficult thing for both you and your child, but do not fret. There are many things that you can do to help your baby transition into being a big kid.
The first step is to implement a strict bedtime. Most kids need at least ten hours of sleep a night, so if your child needs to wake up at seven to get ready for school, make sure they get to bed no later than nine. A good night sleep will enable them to be alert and ready for their school day. The second step is to start your child on “quiet time.” Many Kindergarten teachers enforce naptime and allowing your child a chance to lie quietly for thirty minutes will help them become accustomed to this part of their school day.
A good idea to for your child is clean up time. Since Kindergarten is based on learning in a fun environment, kids are allowed an ample amount of playtime during the day. This means that cleaning up is a daily routine. Giving your child light chores around the house, such as clearing off the table or making their bed, gives them the familiarity that chores must be done at certain times throughout the day, and should help them understand that clean up time at school is just as signficant as playtime.
Another great idea when getting your child ready for Kindergarten, is to familiarize them with their school. Take them through the school; stopping at their locker, the cafeteria, and their classroom. Let them meet their teacher before school begins, and have him/her explain what is going to be expected of them throughout a school day, this way your child has a chance to know their surroundings and their expectations before the first day.
The last tip I am going to give you is mommy/daddy time. This is an important and necessary step in getting your child ready for Kindergarten. Kids do not necessarily understand what it is parents do while they are in school, and they will miss and worry about you. Before school starts, give them time in the evening, a time when school would be over, and tell them about your day. This way, your child has the opportunity to understand that they do not need to worry about you while they are away at school. Also, let them tell you about their day, make this a routine a few weeks before school starts, and they will become accustomed to sharing what they did in school and listening to what it is you did. Not only will this enhance your communication with your child, but also it will give you both an opportunity to establish a set time and place to spend time together.
There are many new things for both you and your child to become aware of as they begin their educational journey. It can be difficult yet rewarding, watching your baby walk into that classroom. Just remember, many parents go through the same thing and by helping your child get ready for Kindergarten, you are also helping yourself transition into the routine.
