By Superintendent Van Ayres
If you’ve got a little one heading into prekindergarten or kindergarten, you’re probably feeling a mix of pride, excitement and maybe a little nervous. That’s normal. Here’s the truth: being ‘ready’ doesn’t mean your child needs to be reading early or sitting still for long stretches. It means they’re building the everyday skills that help them walk into school feeling confident and capable.
Here are a few practical ways to get started without turning your home into a classroom.
Focus on independence. Practice the basics: opening snack containers, washing hands, using the restroom, putting on a backpack and cleaning up after themselves. These small skills make a big difference in a busy classroom.
Lock in a routine. A steady bedtime and morning routine will set your child up for success and it will make your first week smoother, too. If your schedule has been flexible, start shifting to a school-night routine a couple of weeks early.
Help them handle big feelings. New places come with new emotions. Talk through what school might look like and give them a plan, such as, “If you miss home, tell your teacher,” or “If you need help, raise your hand.” Kids do better when they know what to do.
Read every day and keep it simple. Even 10 minutes counts. Let your child choose books. Ask questions about the pictures. Talk about the story. Point out letters and words on signs and packages. You’re building language and confidence, not giving a test.
Practice getting along with others. Taking turns, listening, sharing space and using respectful words matter just as much as counting and colors. Time at the park, story time at the library or playing with neighbors all help.
Keep your message positive. Kids pick up on our tone. If we talk about school as a safe place to learn, make friends and try new things, they’ll walk in with more confidence.
One last thing: every child develops at their own pace. If your child feels supported, encouraged and excited to learn, you’re on the right track. We’re looking forward to welcoming your family and we’ll be ready for them on day one.
To learn more about Hillsborough County Public Schools’ early learning programs, visit https://hcpsready.com/.
