the do’s and don’ts of the first day of kindergarten

Guest post by Judy Brown an elementary school teacher with 20 years of kindergarten experience under her belt. Her favorite saying is “To Teach is to Touch Lives Forever”.

Many times parents are not sure what to do the first day of kindergarten. To begin the process of working together as parent and teacher, here is a list of helpful suggestions to make that big day go as smooth as possible for all involved.

DON’TS

1. Don’t get into an argumentative situation with your child before arriving at school.
2. Don’t be late.
3. Don’t overwhelm the teacher with information about your child.
4. Don’t make promises to your child that you cannot keep.
5. Don’t linger around after school starts.
6. Don’t leave school without saying goodbye, have fun or I love you to your child.
7. Don’t monopolize the teacher’s time. She has many other students and parents to welcome.
8. Don’t allow your child to bring toys to school without prior permission from the teacher.
9. Don’t forget to bring extra clothes for your child. Accidents do happen.
10. Don’t bring anything to school that contains nuts of any kind.

DO’S

1. Do provide your child with a healthy breakfast before school and a snack for the end of the day.
2. Do arrive on time.
3. Do introduce your child to his/her teacher.
4. Do label everything your child brings to school.
5. Do make sure the teacher is aware of any allergies your child may have.
6. Do dress your child in the appropriate attire for kindergarten from head to toe.
7. Do bring your camera for that first day of kindergarten picture.
8. Do reassure your child that you will be back at a given time.
9. Do a quick campus tour with your child. Check out the playground, classroom, cubbies, their special seating area and the bathroom.
10. Do stay calm, put on your happy face and hold back your tears.
11. Do remind your child to listen and follow directions, to use their manners, to play safe, and to remember rules of taking turns, sharing and cooperating.
12. Do reassure your child that his/her teacher will help him, give him a hug if needed and answer any questions he/she may have.
13. Do tuck a special note or drawing, from you that expresses your love, in their backpack or lunch box.
14. Do leave a note for the teacher of any personal concerns you may have.
15. Do encourage your child to do his/her best and to have fun.