Academic

Key Changes:

• Moving to a more structured day with set schedules, rules, and early academics
• Focus on building letter sounds, counting, following directions, and social skills.

Louisiana Requirements:

• All children age 5 by Sept. 30 must attend full-day kindergarten under Louisiana law.
• Must provide birth certificate, proof of residency, and up-to-date immunizations.

Important Notes:

• Register early: fill out required documents, proof of residence, birth certificate, immunizations.
• Health requirements: up-to-date shot records, often needed pre-turn-in.
• Kindergarten readiness screening: required by local school boards for entry into 1st grade (DIBELS)
• Attend any kindergarten readiness events or screenings
• Ask about your child’s kindergarten entry assessment

Readiness Basics:

• Early Literacy: Practice letters, rhyming, and everyday vocabulary.
• Early Math: Count to 20, name shapes, sort and match objects.
• Independence: Practice dressing, bathroom use, and sitting for 15–20 minute activities.

Helping Students Adjust:

• Practice opening snacks, using the bathroom independently, and tying shoes.
• Read daily: point out letters and sounds in signs, books, and songs.
• Start consistent bedtime and morning routines that match the school schedule.
• Read together for 15–20 minutes each day.
• Create a simple, predictable goodbye routine (e.g., hug, wave, goodbye song).
• Be on time for pickup: consistency builds trust and eases future drop-offs.

LITERACY ACCOUNTABILITY & SUPPORT (ACT422):

• SCREEN K–3 READING SKILLS
• SUPPORT STRUGGLING READERS WITH TUTORING/INTERVENTION DECIDE
• PROMOTION BASED ON READING ASSESSMENTS

Social Emotional

Key Growth Areas:

• Self-Regulation: Managing emotions, calming down, waiting turns.
• Independence: Following routines, tidying up, asking for help.
• Communication: Sharing feelings, listening, using words to solve problems.
• Friendship: Sharing, taking turns, cooperating, including others.
• Confidence: Trying new things, recovering from mistakes, showing pride.

Navigating Change:

• Build Relationships: Help kids feel connected to teachers and peers.
• Set Routines: Predictable schedules build safety and comfort.
• Model & Practice: Use play and stories to teach feelings and coping.
• Bridge the Gap: Offer visits, meet-the-teacher, or gradual entry.
• Include Families: Keep families involved to reduce stress for all.

Helping Students Adjust:

• Talk About Feelings: Let your child know it’s okay to feel nervous or miss their old classroom. Try saying, “It’s okay to feel that way— you're still safe and cared for.”
• Use Routines and Visuals: Simple routines, picture charts, or calmdown spaces at home and school can help your child feel more secure.
• Cheer On the Effort: Praise their trying—not just getting it right. “You worked so hard on that!” builds confidence.
• Practice Solving Problems: If your child has a small disagreement, talk through it together. “What could we try next time?” helps them learn to work through challenges.
• Stay Connected with Teachers: Check in with your child’s teacher and share what’s working at home. When families and educators work together, kids feel supported every step of the way.