Even if your little one has been to day care, there still may be some fear and trepidation about going into kindergarten. Talk to them about what they think it will be like. Reassure them that they will make friends and do well. There are things that you can do over the summer to help them be ready for the transition. Review the safe route to school. If it’s a new school, walk it with them several times so that it becomes familiar. Practice lunch time. Have them take their lunch box out of their backpack and have a picnic with them. Talk about sharing and caring for others. What to do if they are being bullied. Read with them. The Hamilton Public Library has a list of 100 Books to Read Before Starting Kindergarten. Organized by theme, such as feelings, friendship, food and more the list can be found in the What’s Happening Programme Guide available at the bookmobile or any library branch or on-line at kids.hpl.ca .
Get Ready for Kindergarten is a program of stories, songs, activities and crafts to help your child get excited about stating Kindergarten in September. (ages 3 – 5) Register at Central Library. Fridays August 3 – 24 @ 10:30 AM.
Above all, show them that you are not worried and that you are excited for them to go to school and meet new people.
