Preparing for Kindergarten
Easing Children's Concerns When Entering School
Stepping into the classroom for the first time is like entering a whole new world. A child may be nervous and scared, not knowing what to expect. Parents can help to alleviate some of the worries but talking with their child and setting up a visit to the school ahead of time.
Visit the School
Dr. Laurie Ford, a child psychologist at the University of South Carolina, [“Tools for Getting Your Children Ready for School”, iParenting.com] suggests parents can help alleviate first day jitters by talking with their children about their own school experiences, and why they liked school. Additionally, parents can drive by the school and play in the schoolyard in the weeks before school begins. If there are older siblings that already attend school, have them give reasons on why they like school as well.
Teachers are often in their classrooms for at least one week before the start of school. Many teachers would welcome a visit by their students, especially if it will help to ease nervousness on the first day of school. Parents can contact the school and speak with the teacher to set up a time for a private visit to the classroom.
Common Questions Children Have
Young children may not be able to voice their concerns or explain their fears. Dr. Ruth Peters, in an article “How to Prepare your Kids for Kindergarten” [Today, MSNBC], discussed some of the common areas children have questions about:
Bathroom Use
Young children need to know where the bathroom is and when they are able to use it. Let your child know the teacher will explain the rules on using the bathroom on the first day of school. Many kindergarten classrooms are set up with their own bathroom. If not, the teacher will explain about using the bathroom in the hallway on the first day of school.
Some kindergarten teachers will suggest parents send in an extra set of underwear and pants for their children, in case of a bathroom accident. This way, the problem can be addressed quickly and easily, without causing embarrassment to the child.
Snacks and Lunch
Traditionally, kindergarten classes are half day classes and therefore do not have a lunch time. Snack times are usually mid-way through the kindergarten class. Your child can help choose healthy snacks to bring to school. Some schools offer a full-day kindergarten program and, therefore, will include lunch. Talk with your child about the differences between packing a lunch and buying a lunch at school.
Nap Time
By kindergarten, many children no longer fall asleep at nap time. However, children still benefit from a quiet rest period. Let your child know it is okay if he or she does not fall asleep, but that it is important to lay quietly during this time. Let them know nap time is not a long time, but is normally a short rest period.
Homework
Homework in kindergarten usually involves coloring or cutting and pasting pictures from a magazine. There may also be some printing, as children begin to learn to write. Homework in kindergarten should be a positive, fun experience.
Making Friends
Your child is probably nervous about meeting other children. They may be concerned the other children will not like him or her. This is a normal concern, let your child know that the other children are probably worried about the same thing, but that kindergarten is a fun place and the children in the class will all get a chance to know each other and play together.
Kindergarten should be a positive and fun experience for children, helping the to develop a love of learning. If you find your child having a difficult time adapting to school, talk with their teacher about ways you can work together to make this year a success.
You might also be interested in:
Family Involvement in Education
First Day of School for Parents: Comforting and Encouraging Parents when their Children Start School
References:
Johnson, Kendeyl (Date Unknown). "Tools for School:Getting your Child Ready for School". iParenting.com
Peters, PhD, Ruth (2008,Jul 23). "How to Prepare Your Kids for Kindergarten". Today, MSNBC.msn.com
Starting Kindergarten Is an Exciting Time
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