By Crèche Day School:At Crèche, we support your child academically and socially every step of the way to ensure they’re ready for Kindergarten, but what can you do at home to help them feel confident and prepared as it gets closer? Whether your child is bubbling with excitement or feeling a little unsure, this last week before school starts is a wonderful opportunity to ease the transition emotionally, mentally, and practically. Here's a simple, encouraging guide to help make it a smooth start:
Start shifting your days to reflect the rhythm of the school year. Your child’s body (and brain!) will thank you.
Wake-up & bedtime: Start waking up and winding down earlier so those first school mornings don’t feel so tough. A predictable routine helps children feel safe, secure, and well-rested.
Mealtimes: Begin having breakfast, lunch, and snacks around the same time they’ll eat at school. Familiarity with the routine = fewer nerves and more confidence!
Empower your child by helping them master the little things that make a big difference in the classroom:
Putting on their own shoes, coat, and backpack
Using the bathroom all by themselves
Opening lunch containers and snack bags
Cleaning up toys and activity materials
Turn these into mini challenges or games, cheer them on and celebrate wins! “Look at you zipping your coat like a pro! That’s a Kindergarten Super Skill!”
Big changes feel a little smaller when kids know what’s coming. Give them a peek into the school day:
What happens when they arrive?
When do they eat or take breaks?
Who’s dropping them off and picking them up?
Even if you don’t know all the details, just talking about the general routine helps calm first-day jitters. Bonus: If you can swing it, drive by the school or attend a preview event so it feels more familiar.
Feelings will be big as it gets closer, and that’s okay! What your child needs most is connection and reassurance.
Share your own fun memories of school
Read stories about starting Kindergarten
Role-play saying goodbye, meeting new friends, or asking for help
Most importantly, let them know their feelings are valid:“It’s okay to feel excited and nervous. New things can feel a little scary, but you’re ready, and we’re right here cheering you on.”
