Parents sometimes comment on changes they are noticing in their five year olds. It’s around this time of year that talk of “going to school” picks up. Many children have grown up in the same daycare environment and may be a bit apprehensive about leaving. While it’s an exciting time, some may be struggling a bit with their feelings and concerns. It’s also worth mentioning that many children breeze right through, looking forward to this new venture!
Some children may display their fears by:
- Clinging
- Thumb sucking
- Aggressive or irritable behavior
- Tantrums
- Emotional outbursts
Children look to adults for reassurance, comfort, and stability. To make kindergarten a smooth transition, it’s helpful to encourage dramatic play opportunities by providing props such as backpacks, pencils, notebooks, lunchboxes…etc.
Acting out future events leads to feeling more confident. Think of it as a dress rehearsal. There are also many books on the subject of going to kindergarten.
Here are a few recommendations:
- The Night Before Kindergarten by Natasha Wing and Julie Durrell
- Look Out Kindergarten by Nancy Carlson
- Kindergarten Rocks by Katie Davis
- Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten by Joseph Slate and Ashley Wolff
- Welcome to Kindergarten by Anne Rockwell
- Discover and Explore (Get Set for Kindergarten) by Rosemary Wells
- Jackie & Jo-Jo
WOW! I just logged on to your site today, for the first time, and was TOTALLY immpressed! I love the format….informative, but to the point and easy to read!
There is just SOOOO much know when you are raising a child..thanks for providing this valuable resource. I have a nephew who’s wife is delivering their first child TODAY…I am going to forward the link to her…so she can get started on the right foot. thanks so much, ncr