"Take a deep breath. Relax. You can do it."
That’s our YMCA of the Triangle Vice President of Youth Development Kim Keith's advice about entering kindergarten. And, she’s talking to parents, not kids.
“The way to get children ready for kindergarten is to get parents ready for kindergarten,” says Kim.
The first week in particular is nerve-wracking for many parents.
"Older students are already settled in a school routine and most kindergartners are still making the big transition to big school."
How do you ease that big transition?
Make it sound like fun. As a parent, you set the tone. Children will pick up on your nervousness.
Will my child succeed in kindergarten?
That is one of the most common questions Kim hears from parents. If you give children a chance, they will rise to expectations. Successful kindergarten students get along with others. Successful adults get along with others. The academics will come along.
YMCA After School helps me because I’m a working parent. But will it really help my child?
Children who come to Y programs are often more confident because YMCA counselors work with children to build their self-esteem. Our counselors have a relationship with the school and the teachers. The Y helps prepare children to follow rules and structure helps them build confidence. It’s not overstating it to say that we teach life skills. Plus, kids get the active play time they need at After School.
