1
Practice kindergarten skills
Write letters and numbers together, practice holding a pencil, write their name, and cut paper with child-safe scissors.
Try this: Make a grocery list together and let your child write a few letters.
Parents · VPK & Preschool
Is Your Child Ready for Kindergarten?
Kindergarten is a big step. For some children it is their first structured classroom; for others it is a bigger room with more friends. Every child reacts differently, and a little practice at home makes the change much easier.
Talk about kindergarten, read books about it, play “school” at home, and try the eight tips below. Each one has something you can do tonight.
2
Set bedtime and morning routines
A steady bedtime and a simple morning routine make on-time drop-off easy. Lay out clothes the night before, brush teeth, read a book, and get a full night’s sleep.
Try this: Pick a “leave the house” time and see if you can beat it together.
3
Make following directions fun
Practice one-step and two-step directions through crafts, games, sports and cooking.
Try this: “Wash your hands, then bring me two spoons.”
4
Talk about feelings
Kindergarten brings a lot of firsts. Ask how your child feels, share your own feelings, and let them know it’s normal to feel excited and nervous at the same time.
Try this: “What are you most excited about? Is anything making you worried?”
5
Read together every day
Reading aloud is the single best foundation for kindergarten learning. Choose books about starting school, and ask questions as you read.
Try this: “What do you think will happen next?”
6
Meet new friends
Set up playdates with children who will be in kindergarten too, at the park or the library. Let them “play school” and talk about what they will learn.
Try this: Invite a classmate for a picnic before the first day.
7
Celebrate their strengths
Remind your child how much they have already learned. Kindergarten is about trying new things and getting better at old ones.
Try this: “What are you great at? What do you know the most about?”
8
Practice asking for help
Some children worry about needing help with the bathroom, shoes or packing up. Let them know teachers are always there to help, and practice asking at home.
Try this: Role-play: “Excuse me, can you help me open my snack?”
Kindergarten readiness is built into every day hereOur preschool and free VPK classes follow the Florida early learning standards, and our kindergarten readiness and homework help elective gives extra practice.