There are simple ways to ensure that your child’s first days in kindergarten will establish strong habits for learning, growth and fun.
Kindergarteners set the foundations for their academic career to come. Days spent finger painting, sitting through story time and enjoying playtime outdoors are also the very first days in an academic setting, the beginning of a path that will weave through elementary, middle, high school and beyond.
That’s not to put too much pressure on parents simply looking for the best way to get their young ones started for their first days at preschool. Your child’s future enrollment at Harvard is not going to fail or succeed based on their kindergarten experience.
Nevertheless, there are simple ways to ensure that your child’s first days in kindergarten will establish strong habits for learning, growth and fun. According to officials from the Boulder Valley School District, kindergarten isn’t only about the child; it’s about developing a learning partnership between parents and kids. By taking an active role and investing in your child’s daily success at kindergarten, you can set up a pattern that benefits your child throughout their academic journey.
Here are some simple tips for parents looking to create early and effective success strategies for their young students.
Invest early
Get to know your child’s school, their teacher and their classroom before the school year starts.
Communicate with educators
Communicate with educators, get a sense of the rubric for the year, and learn about activities, books and outdoor activities taking place at the school. This will help you keep in the loop and may create a valuable bond between home and school.
Encourage through doing
By getting a sense of what your child’s kindergarten routine will look like, you can support that environment at home.
On that note, what’s a better way to supplement reading time in class than creating a reading hour at home? How better to complement art class than harboring creative time at home?
Complement brain activity with physical activity
Kindergarten includes plenty of physical activity for a reason. Children at this age are growing, and keeping their bodies active is a key component of keeping their attention engaged.
Keep up a sense of play
It may seem trite, but learning can be fun. Encourage joy, and find inroads to tap into your child’s interest as they begin kindergarten.
Give it time
Transitions in life aren’t always smooth, and a child’s adjustment to a new learning environment may take some time. Equip yourself with the knowledge and background you need to offer support and be patient as your child begins to grow into their identity as a student and a learner.
By Adam Goldstein for Raised in the Rockies
