Starting kindergarten is a major milestone that brings excitement and anxiety for both children and families. Teachers play an important role in helping children feel confident and prepared for the transition.

Helping Children Transition

  • Talk openly about children’s feelings and reassure them that mixed emotions are normal.
  • Create activities such as class books, discussions, and bulletin boards about kindergarten.
  • Invite kindergarten teachers to visit and answer children’s questions.
  • For children attending different schools, use photos and discussions to familiarize them with their new schools.
  • If children will remain in the same school, arrange classroom visits and joint activities with kindergarten classes throughout the year to build familiarity.

Supporting Families

Teachers should help families understand that kindergarten readiness includes more than academic skills. Children should be able to:

  • Manage personal care tasks independently (e.g., handwashing and using the restroom).
  • Demonstrate gross and fine motor skills.
  • Regulate their behavior and express emotions appropriately.
  • Develop early literacy, math, and social skills.

Encouraging Learning at Home

Recommend that families:

  • Read with their child every day.
  • Provide opportunities for drawing, cutting, building, and other fine motor activities.
  • Practice counting and simple math concepts through play.
  • Encourage decision-making and independence.
  • Maintain healthy routines, including nutritious meals and consistent bedtimes.

Helping Families Prepare

Encourage families to:

  • Attend kindergarten orientation and open house events.
  • Visit the school and meet the kindergarten teacher.
  • Prepare school supplies before the school year begins.

Collaborating with Kindergarten Teachers

Preschool and kindergarten teachers should communicate regularly, share information, and plan together. Collaboration creates a smoother transition for children and reassures families that educators are working together to support children’s success in kindergarten.

Source: https://www.naeyc.org/resources/pubs/tyc/feb2014/transitions-kindergarten