INDIANA- Many people may not recall their first day of school, but for some, it remains an unforgettable memory. Personally, I can only remember being taken to the bus stop, feeling a mix of excitement and shyness about the experience.
Looking back, I realize that programs like Head Start significantly supported my early education, which provided essential skills for young learners. Recently, I spoke with custodians who have spent several years in the school system, and they voiced their concerns about incoming Kindergarten students. They noted that many young children today seem unprepared for the demands of school.
In her article, “Ready or Not Kindergarten, Here We Come,” Kelly Galuski highlights important skills that can be taught to children before they enter the classroom, paving the way for a successful educational journey.
First, Galuski recommends that fostering independence at home is crucial for your child’s development. Start by encouraging them to dress themselves, manage their coat, use the bathroom independently, wash their hands without constant reminders, and put on their own shoes. Providing serving spoons at mealtimes allows your child to serve themselves and clear their own dishes, which are essential skills that will benefit them in various settings, from the coatroom to the lunchroom.
Focus on self-help skills by teaching your child to wipe their face after meals and blow their nose without assistance. It’s equally important for them to feel comfortable asking an adult for help when necessary.
Establishing and following routines can significantly ease the transition to school. Create consistent morning habits, such as waking up at the same time, getting dressed, and enjoying breakfast together. These routines will help your child adjust more smoothly to a school environment.
Lastly, acknowledge your child’s feelings about starting school. Avoid overwhelming them with discussions about school, especially until the end of summer. Whether they express excitement or nervousness, take the time to validate their emotions and provide reassurance.
By focusing on these key areas—independence, self-help skills, routines, and emotional acknowledgment—parents can effectively prepare their children for successful transitions into school and beyond.
Daisy Mata, MSW, LSW, is a Youth First Mental Health Professional at Washington Primary School in Daviess County. Youth First, Inc., is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening youth and families. Youth First provides over 100 highly trained mental health professionals (primarily master’s level social workers), prevention programs, parent engagement coordinators, and bilingual support personnel to 126 schools across 14 Indiana counties. Over 53,000 youth and families per year are served by Youth First’s school-based social work and community programs that promote mental health, prevent substance misuse, and maximize student success. To learn more about Youth First, visit youthfirstinc.org or call 812-421-8336.
