For kindergarteners, back to school time marks a return to the classroom and for many, their first experience with an all day class. Here are some tips for kinder parents.

 

Parentfurther.com has some great tips for parents with children headed off to kindergarten.

1. If you and your child have fallen out of your bedtime routine this summer, get back into a solid routine! A week before the first day of school is a good time frame in which to begin.

2. Most schools have a standard set of requirements for student immunizations, vision, and hearing tests. Download a free immunization schedule before your child starts school to help prevent any delays in registration. Learn more about immunizations from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

3. Plan and shop for healthy breakfasts and lunches a week in advance. This will save you precious time and prevent much stress in the long run!

4. Go shopping for school supplies together. Have your child help you pack his school backpack the night before the first day of school, and place it near the door.

5. Save time on those busy school mornings by preparing your child’s clothes a week ahead of time, already paired. Place a pair of socks, underwear, a shirt, and matching bottoms together in the drawer so that your child can easily grab a stack and go.

6. Talk with your child about what to expect during an average school day—from lunches and naps to snacks and bathroom breaks. Preparing your child for a new routine will help him cope with any anxiety he may be experiencing.

7. Accidents happen! Prepare a change of clothes in advance and bring it with you on the first day of school for your child’s teacher to keep in the classroom.

8. Prepare your child for socializing in the classroom. Teach her to introduce herself and make friends: “Hi, my name is Sarah; what’s yours?” It’s normal for kids to have some degree of social anxiety. Talk about those fears with your kids.9. If your child is going to be riding the bus to school for the first time, be sure to talk about bus safety. It’s also a good time to reinforce general safety rules—whom he should and shouldn’t talk to, and when he should and shouldn’t get off the school bus (when you or a guardian is not there waiting to pick him up).

10. Parent involvement in school is important—even in kindergarten! Talk to your child’s teacher regularly about his educational and social development or, if your schedule permits, become an active participant in your school’s PTO/PTA.

Here are some great ideas for parents to be able to be involved in their children's school.

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