Getting ready for school

The word "school" is still off-limits in my household, but I admit that it is definitely on my mind. While my son does his best to avoid areas of stores that have back-to-school sales or discussions about life after camp, I know that a part of him is actually looking forward to getting back to school and seeing his friends every day. (It's a small part of him, but it is there.)

I have been thinking a lot about what his entrance to Kindergarten was like. Sure, he had been in school for years before then - including pre-K - but that was the first time it really struck me that he was a student. I remember watching all the other parents on that first drop-off day. Some children marched away from their parents like they were on a mission. Others looked a little uncertain about what to expect. One girl was gripping the car door screaming "NO!" as her Mom pried her fingers loose and apologized to the waiting teacher.

My son gave us a few extra hugs and said he would see us at pickup. I was a little misty eyed at my baby growing up, but he was fine.

It's hard to gauge your child's reaction to new situations sometimes. But one thing all parents can do is ensure that you are preparing your child for Kindergarten in other ways. A love of books, understanding social interactions and discussions about self-regulation behaviors are all necessary for Kindergarten success.

That last one may be the hardest, as I have met relatively few five-year-olds who could self-regulate their behavior all the time. But, an introduction to books and an understanding of appropriate ways to play are skill sets that even busy parents can make time for.

What did you do to help your child get ready for Kindergarten? Share your steps in the comments.