For some five year olds, the chance to go to kindergarten can not come soon enough. For others, it's something new and scary and they need to be prepared ahead of time for what to expect. Help make the transition from "preschooler" to "big kid" a little easier on your child and you!
Instructions
1. Help your child interact with other kids his age. If they've never been to preschool, consider signing them up for a few days a week or joining a few play groups, just to help develop his social skills.
2. Teach your child the basics: numbers, letters and colors. Have him or her practice writing their own name and count with them often.
3. Help them to develop their motor skills. Simple tasks like writing with chalk can help with coordination.
4. Read to your child often. The more words they learn, the better their vocabulary will become.
5. Talk to them about where they are going, and what they will be doing the next year. Keep it upbeat. Start this conversation early in case there's hesitation. It's better to deal with jitters about kindergarten earlier than later.
6. Take a tour of the school before the school year starts. If given the opportunity, set up a meeting with the teacher as well. If your child is familiar with their surroundings and someone new, it will help ease the transition.
7. Remind them that you'll want to hear all about their day when they get home. It will give them something to look forward to.
8. Prepare a good breakfast for them in the morning before you leave for school.
9. Give them a hug and a kiss and tell them you will miss them when you drop them off. This is going to be a hard day for you too!
Tags: your child