Tips for Parents With Children That Are About to Start Kindergarten
Preparing to enroll your child in kindergarten is a major event for both the parent and the child. Not surprisingly, there are times where it can be easy for a new parent to be unsure of what they should be doing to help their child be prepared to start kindergarten. To avoid making mistakes that could compromise your child's experience in kindergarten, there are some basic strategies that may prove useful.
Begin Helping Your Child Adjust to Their New Schedule Several Weeks Before Kindergarten Starts
One of the biggest adjustments that your child will have to make to kindergarten may be getting up in time to leave for school. Not surprisingly, this sudden change in scheduling can lead to lethargy and agitation as well as increasing the stress of adjusting to the kindergarten experience. Minimizing these issues can be done by starting to get your child on their school sleep schedule several weeks prior to the start of kindergarten. This will provide enough time for your child's sleep schedule to acclimate.
Allow Your Child to Help With Packing Their Lunch
Part of the benefits of going to school is helping your child to learn to be independent. Unfortunately, new parents are often unsure of what they can be doing to help foster this in their very young children. One way that you can do this is to arrange for your child to help with preparing their lunches. In addition to helping your child learn to make confident decisions, this can also be an excellent time to instill the value of well-balanced meals.
Establish Good Communications With Your Child's Teachers
Having open and friendly communications with your child's teachers can be one of the most productive things that you can pursue as a parent. This will help ensure that the teacher is comfortable approaching you if they have any concerns about your child, and it can also allow you to comfortably inquire about your child's performance and lesson plans. Taking advantage of open house nights and other school sponsored events can give you a chance to interact with your child's teachers so that you can build a productive relationship with them.
Have Your Child's Doctor Prepare Instructions for Any Medical Conditions
If your child suffers from chronic medical problems, you should visit their doctor so that they can prepare detailed care instructions. These instructions will ensure that the staff members at the school understand your child's health needs. Additionally, it may be required to provide these instructions if your child will need to take medications while on school grounds.