Parent’s often ask us how they can best prepare their child for
kindergarten, and our answers sometimes surprise them. While you may
think the focus would be on writing or literacy skills, the most important
skills for a new kindergartener are actually practicing independence, self
advocacy, and fine motor skills.
Here are our kindergarten teacher, Miss Joanna’s, top tips to help get your
child ready for Kindergarten in the fall:
- Choose a lunch box and snack containers they can open
independently. Practice! - Practice opening snacks independently; yogurt lids, snack packs etc.
- Choose a style of shoe they can put on and take off independently;
velcro, not too rigid or high ankle - Make sure they can place their lunch box in their bag independently;
bag not too small or too floppy. - Independent bathroom use; wiping, good hand washing
- Help them learn to use a tissue and blow their nose independently
Rest assured that these skills don’t have to be perfect before they start in
September, as we help your child and continue to practice them. However,
a little bit of a head start will really help them feel ready and more confident
as they enter this new environment.Bonus Tip: Go for a few picnic lunches this summer and use the backpack
and lunch container your child will have when they start school. This is a
fun way to practice opening and closing their containers and also to see
where they might need some extra help and practice.
