View the transition as a yearlong journey

Preschoolers prepare all year for the move to kindergarten. It should be the same for their families.

Conversations about the kindergarten transition can take place in formal settings, such as during family-educator conferences or home visits, or in informal moments throughout the year. At the program where I work, families partner with a family success advocate as soon as their children enroll. This relationship continues throughout their time here, and families have told us that it helps prepare them for life after preschool. Regardless of the setting, it’ s essential for families to know that you’ re available to discuss what to expect and how to prepare for the kindergarten experience.

You can also engage in activities and make small adjustments during the year to prepare children and families. For example, you can encourage children to take on more responsibilities and independence( setting the table for mealtimes, zipping up their jackets) as the year progresses. We encourage families to offer these same opportunities at home as children get ready for kindergarten.

Communicate key information in different ways

Families have multiple options when

enrolling their children in kindergarten. They may want and need information about the public, parochial, and other private schools in your area. Make it a priority to build strong, collaborative relationships with these schools to ensure a smooth transition.

For example, you might host a kindergarten information session, where families can hear from a variety of school representatives. We include external partners in these gatherings to answer families’ questions about financial assistance, transportation, and other common issues. Our family success advocates develop individualized plans to help families identify and research full- and half-day kindergarten options, enrollment requirements, and educational or social supports.

It’ s important to remember that you are a primary source of support and information for families. Provide regular updates on your website, in school newsletters, and during family-educator conferences about deadlines for kindergarten enrollment, recommendation letters, and any forms that must be submitted to local school districts. Be mindful of potential barriers, such as language or cultural differences, and tailor your resources accordingly.

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