By Gloria Berger
Richard Chapleau, a chemistry teacher in a California high school, proposed this test for all parents: “What is the answer to 'One fish, two fish?'” If a parent doesn't know the answer, “Red fish, blue fish,” he or she fails. According to Chapleau, “A parent who can't spout Dr. Seuss or Mother Goose but who can name 10 movie stars or pro sports players or rock idols is ruining his child's future.” This definitely holds true for parents of incoming kindergarten students.I still remember when I was 4 1/2 my mother telling me that I would soon be going to kindergarten. I was playing outside in the warm summer days of July. Although we were not rich, she brought me to the store for a new dress, a notebook, pencils, erasers and a lunch box for the first day of school. These were the essentials I needed for school and everything was just for me. I still recall and loved the warm feeling of having new pencils and a black-and-white notebook, indicating I was ready to hit the big time – kindergarten. I still look forward to Septembers and the beginning of school every year, even though I am now sitting on the teacher's side of the desk.As early as July, parents should explain to their children that they will soon be entering a new phase in their lives. Count the days to September and the start of the kindergarten class with them. It should be made clear to the children that this is a positive experience and that they will have the happy opportunity to meet their teacher and make new friends.Children will also be taught to read and write and learn about other fascinating subjects, such as animals, space, geography, math, science, art, music and health. Emphasize playtime, games, physical activity and other topics of interest for a 5-year-old.Parents can reinforce the idea of kindergarten as a place for “grown-up children” who get up every morning, brush their teeth, eat a wholesome breakfast and get dressed by themselves. Help them to do these daily chores independently. Children feel a sense of pride in knowing they can take care of themselves. Teachers appreciate children who can zipper, button and put on coats, hats, gloves and scarves by themselves.In August, discuss the daily morning routine your child will follow once school starts. You may begin with a regular bedtime and wake-up time; dressing; brushing teeth and washing up; and eating a nutritious breakfast. Children function better and are more alert when they eat a healthy breakfast.Children should know that they are expected to be in school on time. Explain how they will get to school each morning – either by walking or driving, going with a neighbor or another responsible sibling or adult or taking a school bus. Reassure them that you will be there to pick them up after school. If you cannot, have a reliable substitute who will be there on time.It is very sad to watch a child wait for someone to take him or her home when all the other children have their parents' arms to run into. Please make every effort to be there for your child. You will be rewarded with a great big smile and gratitude from your child (and his teacher).An important part of preparing children for school is to adhere to the New York City health requirements. A medical report must be filled out by the children's doctors before the students can be admitted to public school. Immunizations must be recorded and other health issues noted.Give the teacher a written notification of health concerns such as diabetes, allergies or other problems your child may have. As a parent, you are responsible for keeping accurate records and making the teacher aware of them.Each morning before school, check the health status of your child. If a child has a fever or is very ill, keep him or her home. Send the child back with a note explaining the absence. Have a name and phone number of another student's parent to find out what the child may have missed while absent.During the summer and after school, read to your child on a regular basis. Make this a special time for you and your child. Stress the importance and the enjoyment in reading, and go to the library weekly. Many libraries have programs for preschool children. Let your child see that you read, and he or she will emulate this habit through the years. Parents who read set a good example for their children.Parents should find a quiet space in their homes for their children to do homework where they can work quietly. This space should have no diversions such as television, computer or other siblings around. Show them that schoolwork is paramount and that you expect them to complete all school assignments in a timely manner.Set time aside from your own busy schedule to participate in school activities, such as joining the Parent-Teacher Association, acting as a chaperone on class trips, offering your services when asked (teachers need lots of help) and attending your child's concerts and science exhibits. If you have any concerns about your child's school behavior or any other questions pertaining to school, see the teacher, who will either see you during lunch hour or before or after school. Teachers try very hard to accommodate working parents. They will even schedule telephone conferences when necessary.Talk to your child and listen for any concerns he or she may have about leaving you and going off to school. Provide reassurance that you are proud of your child and that the student will find kindergarten to be a wonderful experience. Send your child off cheerfully, and when he or she is dismissed after class, greet him or her with a smile and a hug, and ask about the day's activities. Express happiness about your child's growing up and being old enough to begin the school career.Gloria Berger is an early childhood educator and can be reached by e-mail at news@timesledger.com.
