Prepare for Back to School!

Smooth the back to school transition by starting the routines early!

Three weeks before school starts:

• Get school supplies!

• Start adjusting bedtimes and wake-up times to match school hours.

• Talk about what to expect at school, read books about school.

• Practice independence - put on own shoes, open lunch boxes, use bathroom on their own.

Two weeks before school starts:

• Visit or look up pictures of the school.

• Practice saying goodbye, asking for helping from the teacher, what to say to make friends.

• Practice walking to school or taking the bus.

One week before school starts:

• Prepare together - let your child pack their bag and pick their outfit.

• Talk about feelings.

• Stick to the routine.

Get ready for Kindergarten!

Every child is different, and some will adjust quickly while some will take more time. During this adjustment period, it is normal for children to experience mixed emotions.

What to expect:

• Children may experience bathroom accidents - this is normal.

• Children will likely be tired when they get home from school.

• Children will likely get colds and other illnesses more often.

Prepare your child:

• Talk to them about going to school and answer their questions.

• Start the morning routine for school a few weeks early.

• Practice skills such as dressing, undressing, tying shoes, and handwashing.

• Visit the school before Kindergarten starts.

• Practice your pick-up and drop-off plan. Talk about who is and who is not allowed to pick them up at school. Choose a “safe adult” password.

• Teach conversation starters that your child can use to introduce themselves, make friends, ask questions, or ask for what they need.

• Read books about Kindergarten.

• Create a goodbye routine. For example, a special handshake.

• If the school allows, send your child to school with a comfort object. 

Plan to take care of yourself! The transition to Kindergarten can be exciting and challenging for parents!

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At Norwood Centre our team of qualified Early Childhood Development Subject Matter Experts work to provide tools that caregivers can use to support early childhood development. We hear you! If you have a question or concern, please ask us. We have a variety of Child Development Activities available on our website, find them at norwoodcentre.com/child-development-activities. For short-term one-on-one coaching, please call us at 780-471-3737.