Kindergarten. It’s a powerful word that can bring mixed emotions for parents of young learners. If you have a soon-to-be kindergartner, you’re likely feeling excitement about the opportunity for your child to continue growing and flourishing as a learner, while also mourning the passage from young childhood into a new stage.
Like most kindergarten parents, you might also find yourself asking some hard, reflective questions. Have I prepared them enough? Is kindergarten going to reveal failure on me, as a parent?
On their first day of school, you want to do everything you can to put your child at ease. How do you limit your own feelings of anxiety? Here are eight tips to help parents feel more confident about their child’s transition to kindergarten.
Familiarize yourself with campus
It’s likely you have been considering a campus visit when researching kindergarten options for your child. Taking a virtual or on-campus tour can help you feel more comfortable about your child starting school. You’ll be able to visualize where your child will be spending their time each day, and see firsthand the safety measures that are in place to create a healthy learning environment. Let your child join you for the tour, so they can develop some visual reassurances that will help them be more comfortable on the first day of school. Sign-up for additional events, like Open House or Kindergarten Orientation, for more opportunities to explore campus.
Get to know your child’s teacher
Introduce yourself to your child’s teacher as early as possible — don’t wait until parent-teacher conferences! Start with a quick hello by written note, email or phone message, and ask to set up a time to meet. This early introduction will help you learn how they prefer to communicate information, and will lay the foundation for your relationship.
Bonus: Our experienced kindergarten teachers at Gaston Christian School can share additional, specific ways to calm first-day jitters, for parents and students! Just ask.
Limit the unknowns
Knowing how (and when) you’ll be receiving information from your child’s school can help you feel connected to your child throughout the day. Can you expect weekly newsletters? Emails? Will there be phone calls? If you find yourself worrying about a certain detail or with a specific question in mind, write it down! When you have the opportunity to meet with your child’s teacher, you will feel organized and make the most of your time by getting the answers you need to start the year with confidence.
A Place For Your Child to Thrive
Contact Admissions Director Lindsay Lockett to learn more about our nurturing learning environment at llockett@gastonchristian.org or (704) 824-4128. Ask about our upcoming Open House events!
Find a support group
Kindergarten offers your child the opportunity to expand their interactions beyond your home and their immediate community. It can do the same for you, as a kindergarten parent! Look for ways to volunteer or connect with other parents at your child’s school. Chances are, you’ll find they are feeling similar emotions and can offer you the space you need to ask questions and share ideas. It can also be a great idea to connect with parents of older students — they have been where you are before, and know how you are feeling.
Help out in your child’s classroom
If your schedule allows it, plan to become a regular parent volunteer. Spending time in your child’s learning environment will allow you to keep a pulse on what they are doing in school, and might give you some ideas to help them with their transition to kindergarten. It will also keep you feeling connected and involved in your child’s learning. If you are unable to volunteer regularly, ask your child’s teacher if there are opportunities to come as a special guest for career day, or cultural appreciation.
Know your child’s school schedule
Your child is entering a new phase of childhood where they will start to focus on tasks for longer periods of time and develop the problem-solving and comprehension skills that will carry them into elementary school. It’s OK to have mixed feelings about your child growing by such leaps and bounds. Get a copy of their daily schedule so you can follow along with what they are doing, and pray over their day — from music class to penmanship, math to chapel service.
Prepare for kindergarten as a family
Helping your child feel prepared for kindergarten can also help you, as the parent, feel more prepared. Whether your child is currently in an early education program, or has been learning from home, make a portfolio or memory book with their favorite projects and activities. This can help you assess their strengths and weaknesses, and offer closure as they transition to a new phase of childhood.
Parent’s Guide: Kindergarten Readiness
Download our free parent guide and learn how to identify when is the right time for your child to start school.
Children come to kindergarten at different levels, so don’t worry if they don’t check every box on a kindergarten readiness list. Instead, focus on how you can help reinforce new lessons, so they can build on mastered skills. Here are 7 Easy Ways to Prepare Your Child for Kindergarten.
Talk with your child about school
Doing fun, back-to-school activities together can help you and your child feel excited about this new stage. Who doesn’t like picking out a new backpack? The challenge is how to keep that optimistic momentum going once the school year has started. Be intentional about asking your child questions about school. Hearing them share their excitement for what they are learning and achieving can help you feel excited and less anxious.
Step Into Community
Learn more about how Gaston Christian School can support your family as you prepare to start kindergarten. Schedule an on-campus or virtual meeting to speak with our admissions team. If you’re wondering if your child is ready to start kindergarten, check out our KinderReady Parent Guide.
