Seven Ways to Prepare for Kindergarten!

First off, Ahh! I can’t believe I have a child going to school! I have so many feelings of my own to work through, and one way I do that is setting us up for success. Here are the non-academic ways I am doing that.

·         Practice Independent Bathroom Use

I feel like this one doesn’t need much explanation. One of our top concerns sending our son off to school was ensuring that he can efficiently and safely use the restroom on his own. To be clear, he needs to be able to wipe his butt! The glamourous part of parenting.

·         Build a Bedtime Routine

Come up with a system that promotes healthy rest for your child. For us, that looks like dinner, show, bath, books then bed. A warm bath really calms my son’s energy. Then with the books we wind down, and shortly after sleep. We just started switching over from our late summer evenings, but I think this will help with early wake up calls. Also, with his ability to be fully present in class.

·         Polish Lunch Habits

I have been making mental notes of meals my son really loves, as well as areas of nutrition we can improve on. I like to prepare cute little meals for him, but also don’t want to waste food. I feel like his lunch is a way I can support him in the school day. It’s a transition for us both to be apart.

Another thing to anticipate is the opening of packaging/food. For example, opening milk, juice, bananas, yogurt, etc. Rehearsing these skills over the summer will build confidence, and with timed lunch, ensures he has time to eat the meals.

·         Refine Scissor Skills

When I spoke with my son’s teacher at orientation, she mentioned lots of scissor skill activities. While she made no fuss about him needing to know in advance, there is no time like the present. They have an in-house occupation therapist to work with little ones on these skills. I figured we would just give it a go ourselves as well.

·         Read!
This is a favorite of mine. We love a library day in this house. If I’m not reading to the kids every day, I take them to story time. I have learned through my son’s speech therapy how much of an aid simply reading and engaging improves his language and vocabulary.

·         Talk in Complete Sentences

Reading eases us right into this point. Talking in complete sentences is a way I am helping him to engage with his classmates and teacher. I’ll be honest, I do have my worries about his speech affecting those relationships. I was reassured by his speech therapist on the progress he has made.

·         Participate

It is a total privilege that I can get involved with my son’s school events. I grew up with both my parents working and understand how time is not divided the same for us all. If you can participate in the events, do! I know it will bring ease to myself knowing the community behind the school. As well as providing my son with support.

 

I wish your little ones a safe and fun school year! I wanted to keep this list comprised of non-academic preparation. I hope it helps and bring tissues on that first day. The growth this next season will bring will be so beautiful to witness, and take part in. Happy preparing!

XO,

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