How to Prepare Your Kid for Kindergarten This Summer: Simple Tips from a Teacher

Starting kindergarten is a big milestone for both kids and parents. The summer before school begins is a perfect time to help your child get ready for this exciting transition. In the video “How to Prepare Your Kid for Kindergarten This Summer — Simple Tips from a Teacher” from Primary Focus, practical, easy-to-follow tips are shared to boost your child’s confidence, social skills, and early learning—all without stress.

Whether you’re new to Charlotte, NC, navigating Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS), or exploring private and magnet school options, these strategies will help your child thrive on day one.

Why Summer Preparation Matters

Summer is more than just a break; it’s a golden opportunity to build the skills your child needs for kindergarten success. Being prepared can reduce separation anxiety, improve social-emotional readiness, and ease the adjustment to new routines. Preparation sets your child up for a positive school experience and helps parents feel confident they’ve done their part.

Tip 1: Build Independence and Life Skills

Kindergarten teachers value children who can manage simple tasks on their own. This includes:

• Dressing themselves (buttons, zippers, shoes)
• Using the bathroom independently
• Washing hands properly
• Opening lunch containers
• Following simple instructions

Practicing these skills at home this summer helps your child feel capable and ready. It also lightens the load for teachers on the first day.

Tip 2: Encourage Social Skills and Emotional Readiness

Making friends and managing emotions are huge parts of kindergarten life. Use summer to:

• Arrange playdates or small group activities
• Practice sharing, taking turns, and polite greetings
• Talk about feelings and how to express them calmly
• Read books about starting school and making friends

Social-emotional skills reduce separation anxiety and help your child navigate the classroom confidently.

Tip 3: Develop Early Literacy and Math Skills

Kindergarten is a time to build foundational reading and math skills. Summer activities can be fun and low-pressure, such as:

• Reading together daily, asking questions about stories
• Playing letter and sound games
• Counting objects during daily routines
• Identifying shapes and patterns in the environment

These simple steps support what your child will learn in school without feeling like homework.

Tip 4: Establish a Predictable Routine

Children thrive on routine. Use summer to introduce a schedule similar to the school day:

• Consistent wake-up and bedtime
• Regular meal and snack times
• Designated quiet time or reading time
• Time for outdoor play and physical activity

A routine helps your child adjust faster to kindergarten and improves their focus and behavior.

Tip 5: Visit Schools and Talk About Kindergarten

If possible, visit your child’s school this summer. Walk around the building, play on the playground, and talk about what they can expect. Many CMS schools and private schools in Charlotte offer summer orientations or open houses—these are great opportunities.

Talking positively about school, teachers, and new friends helps ease fears and builds excitement.

Why These Tips Work for Charlotte Families

Families in Charlotte face unique challenges when choosing the right elementary school—from navigating CMS enrollment and magnet programs to understanding private school options. These summer preparation tips help create a strong foundation regardless of where your child will attend school.

Getting ready for kindergarten isn’t just about academics. It’s about raising a confident, curious learner who feels comfortable stepping into their new environment.

Ready to Get Started?

For parents in Charlotte, NC, wanting more personalized guidance, Primary Focus offers workshops designed to help you navigate school choices and prepare your child for kindergarten with confidence.

Check out the course Prepare Your Child for Kindergarten here