As the new school year approaches, many of our youngest students are preparing to enter school for the very first time in Pre-K and Kindergarten. It is an exciting time for those students and their families, but there can also be feelings of anxiety and nervousness.

To help families with the transition, we asked our expert pre-k and kindergarten teachers for their top tips.

10 Teacher Tips for Incoming Kindergarten and Pre-K Students

1) Stop by and visit the school playground this summer.

2) Start gradually shifting your child’s sleep schedule now so they are on a school schedule for the start of September.

3) Read books with your children regularly – read to them and alongside them.

4) If your child has nervous feelings or may have separation anxiety, try reading the book, “The Kissing Hand.”

5) Attend your school’s Kindergarten Meet and Greet or Pre-K Meet and Greet. This is a great opportunity to visit the school, meet your new teacher and get comfortable in the classroom.

6) Pack lunch separate from snacks, as they are at different times of the day. Students can get confused in the beginning of the school year and either eat it all at once or throw away food.

7) Attendance is important, even in pre-k and kindergarten. Attending school regularly helps children feel better about school and themselves. Start building this habit so they learn right away that going to school on time, every day is important.

8) Stay positive during drop off and pickup. If you are hesitant, your child will be, too.

9) Be a part of our learning. Read the ParentSquare posts and look at pictures with your child. Reinforce learned skills at home. Help bridge the gap between home and school.

10) Enjoy the remaining days of summer as a family!