Even though starting kindergarten is an exciting milestone in your child's life, it may cause a lot of anxiety for you and your child, too.

As a parent, your attitude, values and behaviors toward school will have a major effect on your child. Here are some tips to help you prepare your child for the first, big day and for doing well in school:

• Be sure your child gets enough sleep.
  Establish a bedtime routine. Children need at least 8-10 hours of sleep. Plan enough time in the morning to get ready, so you and your child don't feel rushed.
• Each evening, set out clothes and other items needed for school the next day.
  Ask your child to decide what clothes he/she will wear. Letting children make choices helps foster brain development and builds confidence.
• Make a transportation plan.
  If your child walks to school, do it together a few times beforehand so he/she knows the route. If your child rides a school bus, review where the bus stop is located. Check with neighbors to see if their children attend the school and set up a chaperone plan for those who wait for the bus
• Get to know the faculty and their roles.
  If a problem arises you will know the teacher or staff person to contact
• If your child is apprehensive or anxious about starting school, talk about his/her concerns.
  Show understanding and offer encouragement. A positive, calm attitude can make a world of difference for your child.
• Read with your child.
  Go to the library together. Buy books for birthday gifts. Research shows that children whose parents read to them on a regular basis do better in school.

Is Your Child Ready?

Most children starting school should be able to:

• Count out loud from 1-20
• Count 10 objects correctly
• Read number symbols 0-10
• Speak in five to six word sentences
• Match letters and name letters in his/her name
• Tell stories
• Draw pictures (rather than just scribble)
• Compare objects by size
• Bounce and catch a ball (showing the hand-eye coordination necessary for reading and math)
• Listen to a story for at least five minutes
• Cope with being away from parents/caregivers
• Recognize rhyming sounds
• Trace basic shapes
• Read his or her own name

Source: Minneapolis Way To Grow: 612-874-4740

Resources: United Way 2-1-1™ is a free and confidential, 24/7 helpline that can connect you to over 40,000 community programs and resources. Just dial 2-1-1 or 651-291-0211.