Back to listing
  • Behavior
  • Education

How to help your child adjust to kindergarten

Posted
A little girl and little boy, smiling, in a classroom holding up the letters W and E.

In this article, you'll find answers to question such as:

1. What behavior can I expect from my new kindergarten student?

2. How can I help them if they are having a hard time with this transition?

The excitement of a new school year can bring lots of emotions, especially for students starting kindergarten. Preparing your child for this transition can significantly help in this adjustment period, says Nida Paul, Supervisor of Education and Prevention Services for the Center for Child Counseling. 

She suggests using a countdown calendar for the first day of school, visiting the school campus and exploring the classroom, meeting the teacher and showing their photo, and explaining what a typical school day and routine will look like. All of these things will help your child feel more prepared and comfortable to go to school on their own.

Paul adds that engaging in creative activities, such as drawing, while discussing the new school year can help children express their feelings – and give parents insight on how they may be able to help. 

“Feelings during big transitions such as anxiety and fear may lead to emotional and behavioral difficulties, such as sleep disturbances, eating problems, frequent mood changes, crying spells, melt downs, defiance, aggression, withdrawn behavior, and social challenges,” Paul says. “It is important for parents to understand that feelings related to transition are leading to the behavioral difficulties,” and that loving and nurturing during this time is key.

Once the school year is underway, it is OK to give children a few months to adapt to their new surroundings, experts say. Having an open dialogue with your child’s teacher is important as well.

“The teacher is the first adult who can help acclimate your child to the new learning environment by building trust and keeping students safe,” says Maria E. Lloyd, Principal of Limestone Creek Elementary School. She also suggests staying involved in their learning throughout the school year, including reading with them at home and celebrating successes. 

If they are struggling to adapt, Lloyd says each public elementary school has a guidance counselor and behavior health professional available to students. 

At home, Paul says, taking time to understand the feelings causing behaviors may help. Parents can use phrases such as “you seem upset” or “you seem nervous” to encourage children to open up. When it comes to increasing your child’s independence and boosting confidence, Paul adds that parents can highlight their efforts to complete new tasks with motivational phrases.

“For instance, parents can say ‘you were able to do that all by yourself’ or ‘you knew exactly what to do and you didn’t even need my help,’ " says Paul.

These encouraging statements help children feel accomplished and help improve their self-esteem.

“Parents should let their child know that they are always there to listen to them and support them in every step,” Paul says. 


SOURCES

  • Nida Paul, Supervisor of Education and Prevention Services, Center for Child Counseling
  • Maria E. Lloyd, Principal, Limestone Creek Elementary

You May Also Like

    • Behavior
    • Education
    • Parenting

    How do I ensure my child is ready for kindergarten?

    Turning 5 isn’t the only indicator your child is ready for school. Children grow and develop in different ways and on their own timelines. If you're wondering whether your child is …

    Read More
    • Behavior
    • Education
    • Health

    Ages 3-5: Running, jumping, balancing and speaking clearly

    One in four U.S. children up to age 5 are at risk for developmental, behavioral or social delay. Read on for insight about key milestones from our experts and how to reach out if y …

    Read More

Related resources

    • Behavior
    • Education
    • Health

    School District of Palm Beach County

    School Counseling — fosters academic achievement, college and career readiness, and social/emotional development

    561-434-8233 Website
    • Behavior
    • Health
    • Parenting

    Center for Child Counseling

    Mental health services in Palm Beach Gardens for families, specializing in play therapy for children who've experienced trauma

    1-800-480-1899 Website
    • Education
    • Parenting
    • Things to do

    BRIDGES of Palm Beach County

    Ten neighborhood hubs help parents raise children healthy, safe and strong

    561-740-7017 Website