25 Things a Kindergarten Parent Should Know

Most children, along with their parents, feel a little jumpy on the first days of kindergarten. Banish first day jitters with these 25 ways to prep for the new adventure of your child starting school!

Meet New Faces

1. Meet the teacher in advance. Open House or Back-to-School Night is the perfect opportunity for you and your child to be introduced to the teacher. By putting a face to a name, your child will gain some comfort.

2. Mingle with other parents and their children. The more recognizable faces on the first day, the better your child will feel when they walk into the classroom.

Get Familiar with New Environment

3. Look around your child's classroom. It's likely there will be a class schedule posted. Review this with your child, so they will know what will be expected of them throughout the day. Knowing snack, lunch, and recess times are helpful in preparing for the day.

4. Focus on fun. While in the classroom, point out fun activities like the art table or fish tank.

5. Take a school tour. Knowing where classrooms, bathrooms, playground, and cafeteria are located is essential information for every child. A visit will give your child some visual reassurances when walking into the school on their first day.

6. Make some time to play on the outside play area, if not occupied by students. Most children love to play outside and it will certainly leave a good first impression.