Is your little one starting Kindergarten soon? Are you a first-time Kindergarten parent and a bit nervous of what’s about to come?
As parents, we can feel anxious about this big milestone in our child's life. Kindergarten is not just a big deal for our children, but for us parents too. We wonder if they are prepared, if they will be kind to others, if they will respect their teacher, and if they will be okay without us. All of these thoughts and pressures can add up.
Preparing for Kindergarten can be overwhelming, from picking out backpacks, lunch boxes, clothes, and supplies to scheduling orientations. It's understandable that our emotions as parents are all over the place. Our children may also be feeling some of the same emotions, but they may not know how to express them to us.
To help bridge the gap between parents and children during important milestones, like starting Kindergarten, communication and connection are key. Angela Kendall’s latest book, "A New Day: Kindergarten Is Here," encourages parents to open up conversations with their children in a safe and positive environment. Books are a great way to start these conversations and help children express any insecurities they may have. Letting your child know that you also get nervous sometimes can ease their minds and help them open up to you.
Keeping up with a day-to-day routine is also crucial for your child's success in kindergarten.- Wake your child up at least an hour before they need to leave for school to avoid feeling rushed.
- Give them enough time to relax, eat breakfast, and look their best before heading out the door.
- Try to keep conversations positive and uplifting, even when you're exhausted.
- Schedule set times for homework, dinner, free play, and a solid bedtime routine.
- Spend time together as a family and ask your child about their day. Open communication will allow your child to express all emotions, building their confidence and creating clear expectations.
Sending our kids out into the big world may feel like the end of an era, but it's important to embrace the excitement that comes with the first day of school. Although it's natural to feel emotional, have faith in yourself and your child. Trust that you've prepared them enough. They will love Kindergarten and will look forward to each new day!
Sweet surprise for the first day of Kindergarten
The My Friends and I book by Life Is Better With Friends, is a great way for your child to get to know their Kindergarten peers and make new friends at school. The book travels from student to student and everyone answers fun questions like: “What is your favorite food? What do you like to do in your free time? What songs do you like to listen to? What books do you like to read? What do you want to be when you grow up?”. Your child will get to learn more about their classmates and teachers in no time.
Your child may learn fascinating facts about their classmates, sparking some interesting conversations. Your child may discover that some peers live close by or share similar hobbies and interests, which could encourage them to try new activities such as sports, music, or art.
Surprise your child on their first day of Kindergarten with a My Friends and I book. Help your Kindergartener fill out the first three pages and have the book make the rounds in the family. Then, once everyone has had a chance to settle in, your kiddo can take the book to school and start learning more about their new classmates and teachers!
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