Tips for Parents of Soon-To-Be Kindergartners

The transition from home or childcare to kindergarten can be daunting for both parents and children.  Remember that children can sense how we’re feeling from what we say and do.  A parent’s enthusiasm and anxieties will most likely be similar to their child’s. Showing a positive, excited approach can reassure children and give them confidence about their new school.



“I have enjoyed the kindergarten experience three times, twice as a parent and most recently as a grandfather,”said Yavapai County School Superintendent Tim Carter. “Whether you are a single parent or a couple with an extended family, your interest and role in preparing a child for life are critically important.”

Zade Gardipee, Saige Scott and Carson Patton are excited to be entering kindergarten this fall.

To support families in getting their kids ready for kindergarten, First Things First has a few suggestions to make sure your child is prepared for their big day:

1.      If you haven’t already done so, start a regular bedtime to prepare your child for waking up on time. Kindergartners need approximately 8-10 hours of sleep per night, so plan ahead.



2.      Prior to that first day, meet your child’s teachers and introduce them to your child. Be sure to express your appreciation for their hard work.

3.      Make sure your child’s immunizations and health records are up-to-date. Most schools have standard requirements for immunizations, vision and hearing tests. Contact your local school district for an updated list.

4.      Talk with your child about what to expect during a typical school day. This includes lunches, snacks and bathroom breaks. The more you speak with your student about the details, the less anxiety he or she is likely to experience on that first day of class.

5.      To help overcome any fears, rehearse for the big day by practicing all the activities that will happen at school. Do a test-run of the new routine:

a.      Practice waking up in time for school. Allow your child plenty of time to get ready.

b.      Plan and fix a healthy breakfast. Teach your kindergartner how to help.

c.       Lay out clothes the night before. Make sure zippers, buttons and ties can be easily fastened. 

d.      If your child will take the bus, walk to the bus stop and talk about boarding and where to sit. If you’re driving them to school, do a dry run and talk about landmarks along the way.

e.      Pack a lunch for both of you and sit down with your children and practice opening things together. If you will be sending a lunch, make sure its nutritious food that they like and can open easily.  Juice boxes, fruit cups, and zip lock bags can frustrate your child if they haven’t had practice!  Remind them to ask for help if needed.  Teachers and lunch staff will be there to help.

6.      Reassure your child about what kinds of activities will happen at school and after the day is over.  If they are going to afterschool care, talk about the activities and schedule during this time.

7.      Kindergartners sometimes have accidents. It’s a reality that should be anticipated. Pack an extra pair of clothes for your child and bring it on or before the first day of class.

8.      Give your child a family picture of you to keep in their pocket or backpack, and reassure them about what time you will be back to pick them up.  Send them off with a reassuring hug and kiss!

9.      Getting involved in your child’s school activities will not only benefit you and your child, it will help the school and community as well. Speak with your child’s teacher regularly. Consider participating in your school’s PTO/PTA. These things send a message—to your child, teachers and the community—that your child’s education is important.

10.  Most importantly, celebrate and enjoy this milestone with your child!

“In previewing the list of ‘Tips for Parents of Kindergarteners’ offered by our colleagues at First Things First, I can assure they are well founded, research based, and have a significant and positive impact on the success of families with children entering kindergarten,” said Superintendent Carter.

First Things First works to ensure that all Arizona children arrive at their first day of kindergarten healthy and ready to succeed. For more information, please visit us at azftf.gov/brains.