Starting kindergarten is a major milestone for both children and parents. It’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and apprehension.
Will my child adjust well to a new routine?
Will they make friends?
Will they feel safe and confident in this new environment?
At Grace Community School, we understand these concerns and partner with parents to ensure that your child’s transition to kindergarten is smooth, joyful, and Christ-centered.
Whether you’re exploring the benefits of a private Christian kindergarten or looking for practical kindergarten readiness tips, here is some helpful information.
Five Practical Kindergarten Readiness Tips for Parents
To help your child prepare for kindergarten, start with simple, intentional steps:
- Talk to your child about kindergarten as an exciting adventure: new friends, caring teachers, and fun activities.
- Read together to prepare your child academically and emotionally. Books about starting kindergarten can also ease kindergarten fears.
- Help your child get comfortable with routines like dressing independently, listening, and following simple instructions.
- Encourage social play. Skills like sharing, turn-taking, and teamwork are essential for a smooth transition.
- Pray with them. Prayer brings peace and confidence. Remind your child that God is with them as they start this exciting new chapter.
Easing Your Family’s Kindergarten Anxiety
At GCS, preparation begins well before the first bell rings because we want your child to feel prepared and excited about this new journey.
That’s why we offer personal tours, family meetings with the principal, and new parent orientation.
“We have pictures of new parents and students, and we work diligently to know names and faces as quickly as possible,” said Jennifer Dozier, elementary principal. “When children realize that we know their parents and can call them by name, they feel at ease because they feel known, too.”
Also, before kindergarten begins, families gather for a fun picnic on the playground. It’s a chance for children to make new friends and start building relationships.
Once class rosters are decided, children come in small groups and meet with their teachers. This also helps teachers connect with children so that on the first day, there’s already a sense of comfort and belonging.
“We welcome parents to walk their children to the door of the classroom and greet the teacher to show that there’s a transference of safety, authority, and love,” Dozier said, adding that the curriculum, at the beginning of kindergarten, focuses on God’s amazing creation and His big story.
“We relate this to how we are part of God’s story and, together, we are creating a wonderful school community. We remind our kindergarteners that God loves them and has a plan for them. Part of that plan is that Mom and Dad chose Grace Community School for them, a place where they are loved and safe, living in God’s story and being a part of a precious school community.”
And, GCS doesn’t forget about the parents on the first day of school. We host a special breakfast — called the Boo-Hoo/Ya-Hoo Breakfast — where parents can connect, pray, and ease their own nerves.
Helping Your Child Build Friendships, Community, and Confidence
Not all children arrive in kindergarten at the same place academically or socially, but thanks to small class sizes and dedicated teachers, your child will feel supported and loved as they adjust to kindergarten.
Teachers join children during recess to help students build friendships in a playful, supportive environment. Inside the classroom, teachers use small group activities to encourage teamwork and collaboration, and they are strategic about seating because they want every student to be included.
One young student struggled with such shyness that she couldn’t bring herself to even smile at adults in the hallway or recite her memory verse in front of her class.
“We took small, patient steps,” Dozier said. “She started by reciting her verse at home. She would make a video of herself and watch it with her teacher. Then, she started whispering the verse in her teacher’s ear. Now that she’s in first grade, she can say her scripture in front of her reading group.”
Those victories are possible because teachers work hard to guide, encourage, and earn the trust of students and families.
“Our teachers have a great love for Jesus and great love of children,” Dozier said. “They are always looking for the best in people. They’re prayerful and humble, and they make learning fun.”
Don’t wait to experience the GCS difference.
Starting kindergarten is a big step, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming — for you or your child.
Our Admissions Team is happy to answer any questions you may have. They can be reached by phone at (903) 566-5678 or by email.