As summer draws to a close, many families in Alexandria are actively preparing their young children for the significant milestone of starting kindergarten or preschool.
However, readiness for school extends beyond simply wearing new shoes or carrying a backpack.
According to educators, social, emotional, and independence skills are critical for young students at this transitional stage.
Kids’ First Years, an initiative focused on enhancing learning opportunities for young children, has sought guidance from Heidi Haggerty, principal of the Early Childhood Center, a Pre-K school within Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS).
Haggerty has shared valuable insights for parents to help their children make a confident entry into school.
One of her primary recommendations is to increase play time while reducing screen time.
Children must learn to sustain their attention in environments devoid of screens, suggesting that outdoor play with peers and physical toys is beneficial.
Another important tip is to establish a consistent routine.
Parents are encouraged to have their children adjust their sleep schedules at least two weeks prior to school, transitioning to a regular bedtime and wake-up time that aligns with school hours.
This preemptive adjustment aids in easing the shift to an academic schedule when school begins.
Fostering independence is also a key theme in Haggerty’s advice.
Parents should encourage their children to practice self-sufficiency by performing simple tasks like opening lunchboxes or drink containers.
Such activities not only build practical skills but also foster confidence, which is essential for learning.
In terms of clothing, Haggerty suggests that parents opt for easy-to-manage outfits.
While adorable overalls might catch the eye, they often pose challenges for young children who struggle with buttons and straps.
Instead, elastic-waist pants and shoes with Velcro closures should be prioritized to help children dress independently without needing assistance.
Separation anxiety can be another hurdle for both children and parents on the first day of school.
To ease this transition, Haggerty recommends preparing children beforehand.
For instance, clearly explaining the day’s events—such as meeting their teacher and subsequently parting ways—can help reduce anxiety and boost independence in young learners.
She also notes that families should try to avoid major life transitions during the first month of school.
Starting kindergarten is a significant change for young children and can be more exhausting than parents might anticipate.
Additionally, parents should be aware that kindergarten often does not include nap time, a detail that can surprise those who assumed their children would continue their midday routines.
To help children adjust, decreasing nap time in the days leading up to school is advisable.
Haggerty further encourages parents to participate in school-sponsored activities designed to ease students into this new phase.
For instance, ACPS will host an introductory half-day orientation titled ‘Step Up to Kindergarten’ for incoming students.
This event is intended to familiarize children with their new environment, including their classroom and their teacher, creating a sense of comfort and readiness for the first school day.
It is important to keep an eye out for communications from the school regarding the date and time of this orientation.
Kids’ First Years advocates for a collaborative approach between families, schools, and communities in Alexandria to ensure that all young children receive the support they need to thrive as they begin school.
By maintaining routines at home and ensuring open lines of communication between parents and educators, families can significantly contribute to their children’s success at school.
To connect with Kids’ First Years or its associated partners, visit their website at kidsfirstyears.org.
In addition to practical preparation, families may want to engage in reading activities.
Here are some suggested titles that can help children get ready for kindergarten or preschool:
– ‘Kindergarten, Here I Come!’ by D.J. Steinberg
– ‘Benny the Brave in The First Day Jitters’ by Julie Anne Penn
– ‘The Night Before Kindergarten’ by Natasha Wing
– ‘On the First Day of Kindergarten’ by Tish Rabe.
Moreover, Haggerty outlines a variety of activities to help children ease into this new developmental stage.
For example, finding opportunities for children to interact with peers can enhance social skills like sharing and turn-taking.
Furthermore, engaging in active games, like ‘Red Light, Green Light,’ can strengthen listening capabilities and self-control.
When running errands, parents can encourage literacy by pointing out letters in store and street signs, particularly those found in the child’s name, demonstrating fun and interactive ways to enhance learning before school starts.
image source from：thezebra
