Mom’s Before Kindergarten Checklist

Mom has a lot to do before Kindergarten — and it’s not all buying scissors and crayons.  You might need to look inside yourself for this Kindergarten Checklist.

I’ve seen a lot “controversial” posts on what do kids need to know before Kindergarten?  Newsflash, Kindergarten is a BIG change, and your kids need to be equipped to handle it.  But so does their mom.  Here is mom’s before Kindergarten checklist. 

Sidenote:  This post was written in 2014 before my final kid went to Kindergarten but has been edited and republished.

Have you heard me SCREAMING from the rooftop that Princess P is going to Kindergarten this year?

Because she is.  I know it will be a bittersweet day.  I have been at home with a little for QUITE some time.  I’m proud of the work that she and I have done and I KNOW she is well prepared for what she will face at school.  I also know I’m a PTO president who will still be at school an awful lot.

If you’re intersted in more “tested” parenting advice — be sure to check out my practical parenting series:

What does a Mom need to know before Kindergarten?

There are things moms (and probably dads, but I’m not a dad, so maybe my husband could write that post) need to know before Kindergarten too:

1.  Your teacher loves your child.  If there is anything I’ve noticed about Kindergarten teachers (whether they were my favorite or not my favorite) they truly do love your child.  They are taking a solid interest in them growing up to be functioning members of society.  It’s good to know your child is going into loving arms.  It is VERY scary to give your child to someone else.  SO scary.  I get that.  Kindergarten teachers are a special, wonderful breed.  So thankful for each one.

2.  Actively participate.  There are SO many studies about how important it is for parents to take an active roll in their child’s education.  Whether this is being in the classroom as often as you can (SUPER important) or if your job doesn’t allow that — keeping in touch with the teacher and helping at evening events.  Kids know what’s important to you, and what’s important to you will be important to them!

3.  Enjoy it!  I will cry when she walks away.  I am not much of a cryer, but I think I’m crying about that part of my life being over.  It has been long, arduous, but fun and fantastic at the same time.  But, it’s time for me to take some time for myself.  I will be able to concentrate to write blog posts and probably even pee a few times by myself without interruption.  I need to bask in that!

4.  Find some friends.  I have found some of my VERY MOST amazing friends at school.  There are women who are working hard to make our society succeed one kid at a time.  I see so much of what is good in this world by the women I work in PTO (PTO is similar to PTA — btw, I was president a few years) with.  I know you might worry that PTO will be like high school and it is hard to go into a situation that you don’t know anyone — but look for a friendly face.  Ask them to lunch one day.  Everyone can use a friend, right?

5.  It’s a cooperative effort from now on.  That school is part of your child’s life.  You are both on the same side of wanting your child to succeed.  They have budget issues on their side, and you have budget issues on your side (perhaps of time or of money), but both of you want your child to succeed.  NEVER.  I repeat NEVER let your child hear you speak ill of their school.  Sure, discuss it with your husband, talk to your friends about it, vent on Facebook — but you need to think of that school as another parent in your child’s life.  As far as your child knows — their teacher is a dream and so is the principal.  

My kids know my philosophy of whatever the teacher says, goes.  There is no arguing with a teacher, they are in charge and you listen.  That isn’t to say that we don’t talk about how they like their teacher and how things are going on behind the scenes and I would intervene if necessary.  Respecting positions of authority is really big for me as a parent.

Kindergarten is SUCH an exciting step.  I’m excited for you if this is your first trip into the magical fairyland that is Kindergarten.  I am actually getting emotional as I write this.  It is SUCH a special time for you and your family.  They learn so much and really come into their own.  I hope you enjoy it as much as we always have!  I hope Mom’s Kindergarten Checklist helps you have a great school year!

If you’re starting Kindergarten or just want a leg up on the school year, check out Family Routines.  It’s all about organizing the people in your life to work more effiectively and efficiently.  You can even save 10% with code PC10.

Do NOT miss my Practical parenting series — it’s going to help you find parenting easier!