Supporting Your Child's Transition to Kindergarten

• Talk enthusiastically with your child about starting school. If older siblings have had positive experiences, involve them in the discussion. This will allow your child to feel both a sense of reassurance and positivity about school.
• Have your child express feelings and thoughts about starting school. Offer reassurance and comfort.
• Visit a new place with your child. Talk about the beauty of change and new experiences.
• Participate in play with your child. Using toy figurines or stuffed animals; act out a transition to a new place. Act out possible coping strategies.
• Take a picture of your child’s new school. Display the picture in a special location at home.
• Explore parts of the school website with your child, including any fun photos!
• Create a first day of school special tradition. Some examples of this may include; visiting the local library, going to the park or preparing a special meal.
• If your child has not had experience being around other children, set up play dates with neighbors, family, and/or friends.
• With your child, walk by the school, garden and playground.
• Read books with your child about starting school.

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