Transitioning from preschool to kindergarten is a big step. Your little one may be feeling anxious about the change, but with a little preparation and guidance from you, they will adjust to their exciting new academic setting. Below are a few tips to follow.

How Can You Prepare Your Child for Kindergarten?

1. Establish a Routine

Introduce your child to the routine they will need once kindergarten begins. Establish a regular bedtime at least a month before the first day. As school approaches, begin practicing the morning routine you will utilize, including eating breakfast, getting dressed, packing a backpack, and walking to the bus stop or driving to school. Include packing lunch or reviewing how to count out lunch money if they will be buying their meal.

2. Visit the School

Plan a visit to their new school during the summer. Show them their classroom as well as the cafeteria, the playground, and any other area they will need to get used to. If possible, set up a meeting with their teacher so they can meet them to ease their fear of a new person in a new place.

3. Create a Homework Plan

Homework is probably a new concept for young children transitioning from preschool to kindergarten. Set aside time each day to practice. Create a homework area with a desk and supplies, and work on worksheets and other skills like cutting or writing letters.

4. Work on Independence

Even if they will only be attending half-day kindergarten, school comes with a different level of independence that is not included in preschool. Kids will need to learn how to finish their work on their own and make decisions for themselves throughout the day. Begin giving them more independence during the summer. Drop them off at a friend’s house instead of staying with them or call a babysitter and run some errands on your own so they get used to you not being around for a large amount of time.

5. Assess Communication

While your child most likely already has communication skills, kindergarten requires a boost in those areas. Make sure your child is able to express themselves fully so that when you aren’t there, they can ask for what they need. Ask them questions about different topics and have them explain concepts to you. Your child will have more confidence in their abilities when they walk into the classroom without you.

If you are looking for a child care center that offers the skills your child needs to be prepared for kindergarten, trust Northern Lights Preschool & Child Care. Located in Anchorage, AK, for 20 years the learning center has offered a safe, stimulating environment as well as flexible scheduling to suit your family’s needs. Their preschool and prekindergarten programs provide a curriculum designed to boost confidence and develop social, cognitive, and physical skills for future success. Call (907) 274-2040 to learn more about their programs or visit them online to register.