How to Prepare Your Kindergarten Student for a School Routine

Starting school is a big deal for a young child. Some students may be excited, while others are a little scared. When a child knows what to expect and develops a routine, it makes school a lot easier. A parent can help a child develop a school routine even before the school year starts.

Play School at Home Before the Year Starts

If you stay home with your child, it's fun to play school at home. Wake your child up a little earlier than usual and have them get dressed. Wearing school clothes may seem a little silly, but your child will feel the part a lot better if they are dressed the part. Feed them breakfast and have them get in the car after getting ready. If you want you can even drive down the street and back.

Once back home set a designated school area in your house. Pretend to be the teacher and teach your student. Allow time or your child to play outside, too, for recess. You don't want to do this for 6 hours, but go through all the events your child will experience at school: Learning time, free time, recess, more learning, lunch, more learning, go home. Your child will enjoy this role playing, but it is also preparing your child for school.

Visit the New School if Possible

If possible go to the new school your child will be attending. Walk around the school and find bathrooms, office, classrooms, playground. Give your child a chance to play on the playground and go over safety rules. When you visit the school it won't seem like such an unfamiliar place the first day of school. Many Kindergarten teachers wait with the students until the parents pick them up. Talk with your child and ensure them that you will be there everyday on time to the best of your ability. You might want to pick a designated waiting spot such a the big tree or the flat rock.

Ask your Child if He/She has any Questions

Sit down and talk to your child about school. Give him the opportunity to ask any questions and answer the questions honestly. School is an unknown to your child and he may have many questions about starting school.

Keep to a Consistent Schedule at Home

Setting a bedtime will help your child get enough sleep for the new day of school. It's a good idea to pick clothes the night before to avoid arguments in the morning. Set a designated spot near the door for your child's backpack. Make sure your child puts the backpack there before going to bed. Chaotic mornings of looking for items are not a good way to start the day.

Starting school is a very exciting time. With good communication and a little preparation, you are helping your child have a successful start to school. Visiting the school and playing school at home are great ways to prepare for the new year. Keeping a consistent home schedule and getting prepared at night is also a great way to get ready for the school year.