Checklist for preparing your child before entering International Kindergarten

Sending your child to an international kindergarten is an important first step for both parents and children. Good preparation will help your child adjust more easily and ensure a smooth start to their education. Here is a checklist for preparing your child before entering an international kindergarten.

1. Get into a mental and emotional space
- As school information comes out, discuss the new school with your child to get them excited and used to the idea of what school is like.
- Start out with short periods of time away from parents to get them used to be away from parents and that being in a new environment (schools) is not such a big deal.
- Establish a school-like routine of study, sleep, eat and activity times.

2. Fostering Communication and Language Skills
- Talk to your child about the new school to get them excited and familiar with the concept of the school.
- Share Books, Stories, Songs and language learning apps to help support your child’s developing skills.
-  Teach your child to communicate their specific needs eg: “I need to go to the bathroom" or "I'm thirsty".

3. Promote social skills
- Teach your child to play with other children and share and take turns.
- Practice short periods of time away from parents to help them adjust to the new environment of going to school and being away from parents.
- Bring your child to an outdoor activity like a playground or preschool group to acclimate them to being around people.

4. Practice self-care skills
- Educate your child to be able to eat independently with a spoon, fork or their hands.
- Guide your child to independently take off and wear his or her shoes, and be responsible for their belongings.
- Ensure your child can go to the toilet independently and wash their hands properly.
- Have your child practice being able to open up their bag, retrieve their items and store them independently.

5. Get familiar with the school
- If it's possible, take your child on an orientation walk to the school ahead of time to help them adjust to the environment.
- Schedule meetings with teachers and staff to establish confidence and minimize fears.
- Discuss what your child will encounter at school, like new friends, new activities and school rules.

It is not just choosing a good International Kindergarten but more about preparing your child for the next educational phase where school will not just be a class for learning but where knowledge is will be put to practice. When parents help prepare their child emotionally, linguistically, socially, and in routine, their child will be ready to transition into their new school with a smile and ready to learn