And just like that, your little one is off to kindergarten. Before you wave them a tearful goodbye, consider these tips to help them (and you) prepare for the next big adventure.
- Nurture independence
There are still things your child won’t be able to do for themself but it’s important that they start to gain independence in preparation for kindergarten. Being able to wipe their own bottom, wash their hands and get themself dressed are all useful skills that you can teach them. They may still need help with buttons and zips, but they should be able to manage the rest on their own.
- A, B, C’s
Your little one won’t be expected to know how to read and write before they get to kindergarten, but it can help if they are familiar with letters and the numbers 0-10.
Try using letters and numbers that stick to the side of the bath or ones attached to magnets (for sticking to the fridge) for a fun and educational activity. Show your child how to spell out their first name or their age and point out letters and numbers when you’re out and about.
- Routines
Kindergarten will have routines that your child must adhere to, so it makes sense to try and incorporate some into your daily life. Your little one is probably already used to having their meals at a set time, but you could also introduce activities at specific times during the day.
- Social skills
It can help to arrange play dates with other children before your child starts kindergarten, especially if the children they meet will be attending the same setting – a familiar face will really help your little one to settle in. Getting used to playing with other children and being around them is also beneficial.
- Sharing
If ‘mine’ is one of your child’s favorite words, try and introduce the idea of sharing to them. Going from being able to play with anything that they want at home to having to share all the toys at kindergarten can be a tough adjustment. Show your child how to take turns with toys – they can role play by giving teddy a turn until they’re able to practice sharing with real friends.
- Settling in
Talk to your little one about starting kindergarten before their first day arrives, but don’t do it too far in advance as your child won’t understand the concept of time yet. Giving only a few days’ warning will work best at this age. As well as talking about going there, see if you can arrange some settling-in sessions at kindergarten so that you can meet the teacher and see the classroom together.
- Practice goodbyes
If this will be the first time that you’re leaving your child for a significant period, it can help to do a few practice runs. If you cry on their first day, it could unsettle your child (but we know it’s almost impossible to avoid welling up on such a significant day!). Try leaving your child with a friend or family member for a few hours so that you can both get used to spending time apart.
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