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PRODID:-//The Children's Council of Watauga County - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN
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X-WR-CALNAME:The Children's Council of Watauga County
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for The Children's Council of Watauga County
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TZID:UTC
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TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:UTC
DTSTART:20250101T000000
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260501T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260501T170000
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260427T170559Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T170559Z
UID:10000341-1777622400-1777654800@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Taking Turns Game
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nTaking turns is a foundational social skill in kindergarten. Children are expected to share materials\, participate in group activities\, and wait for their turn during games and discussions. Learning this skill helps prevent conflict and builds positive peer relationships. \nHow to do it:\nPlay a simple game (board game\, ball toss\, or building activity) where you clearly model turn-taking. Use language like “My turn\, now your turn.” Keep turns short and predictable to build success. \nWhat to look for: \n\nWaits briefly for their turn\nBegins to understand the concept of “my turn/your turn”\nShows less frustration while waiting
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/taking-turns-game/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260430
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260501
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260427T163359Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T163359Z
UID:10000340-1777507200-1777593599@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Kindergarten Talk & Celebration
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nPositive conversations about kindergarten help reduce anxiety and build excitement. Celebrating progress reinforces confidence and readiness. \nHow to do it:\nTalk with your child about what kindergarten might be like—making friends\, playing\, learning new things. Celebrate all the skills they’ve learned with a small party\, special treat\, or words of encouragement. \nWhat to look for: \n\nExpresses excitement about school\nTalks positively about new experiences\nShows confidence in their abilities
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/kindergarten-talk-celebration/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260429
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260430
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260427T163246Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T163246Z
UID:10000339-1777420800-1777507199@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Independence Scavenger Hunt
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nReviewing and practicing learned skills helps reinforce independence and builds confidence. \nHow to do it:\nAsk your child to “show you” different skills they’ve learned\, such as putting on shoes or cleaning up toys. Turn it into a fun scavenger hunt. \nWhat to look for: \n\nDemonstrates multiple skills independently\nShows pride in accomplishments\nRemembers skills without prompting
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/independence-scavenger-hunt/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260428
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260429
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260427T163131Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T163131Z
UID:10000338-1777334400-1777420799@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Countdown Transitions
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nTransitions can be difficult for young children. Giving warnings helps them prepare mentally and reduces frustration. \nHow to do it:\nUse a timer or verbal countdown (“2 minutes\, then clean up”). Remind your child as time gets closer to the transition. \nWhat to look for: \n\nResponds to time warnings\nTransitions with less resistance\nBegins to anticipate changes
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/countdown-transitions/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260427
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260428
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260427T162856Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T162856Z
UID:10000337-1777248000-1777334399@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Try-It Day
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nTrying new things independently builds confidence\, resilience\, and problem-solving skills. \nHow to do it:\nEncourage your child to try a new task on their own\, such as pouring a drink\, zipping a jacket\, or opening a container. Offer support only if needed. \nWhat to look for: \n\nWillingness to try new tasks\nAttempts before asking for help\nBuilds confidence through success
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/try-it-day/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260426
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260427
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260427T162745Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T162745Z
UID:10000336-1777161600-1777247999@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Finish-the-Mission Game
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nTask completion is an important skill for school success. Children need to be able to start and finish activities before moving on. \nHow to do it:\nGive your child a simple “mission\,” such as completing a puzzle or cleaning up toys. Encourage them to finish before starting something new\, offering praise for persistence. \nWhat to look for: \n\nStays with a task until it is finished\nShows persistence even when it’s challenging\nFeels proud after completing a task
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/finish-the-mission-game/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260425T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260425T170000
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260427T162601Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T162601Z
UID:10000335-1777104000-1777136400@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Simon Says (2 Steps)
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nKindergarten instructions often include multiple steps. Being able to remember and follow two-step directions supports learning and participation. \nHow to do it:\nPlay “Simon Says” with directions like “clap then jump” or “touch your head then spin.” Start simple and increase complexity as your child improves. \nWhat to look for: \n\nCompletes both steps in order\nListens carefully before acting\nNeeds fewer reminders over time
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/simon-says-2-steps/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260424
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260425
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260427T162442Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T162442Z
UID:10000334-1776988800-1777075199@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Blow the Feather
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nLearning to blow air gently through the nose is a step toward independently managing runny noses\, which is important in a classroom setting. \nHow to do it:\nPlace a feather or cotton ball on a table and encourage your child to blow it using controlled breaths. Keep it light and playful. \nWhat to look for: \n\nAttempts controlled blowing\nUnderstands how to use breath intentionally\nShows progress over time
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/blow-the-feather/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260423T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260423T170000
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260427T162323Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T162323Z
UID:10000333-1776931200-1776963600@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Tissue Toss
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nUsing tissues properly helps prevent the spread of germs in the classroom and promotes healthy habits. \nHow to do it:\nTeach your child to take a tissue\, wipe their nose\, throw it in the trash\, and wash their hands. Turn it into a game by aiming for the trash can. \nWhat to look for: \n\nUses tissues independently\nThrows them away properly\nRemembers to wash hands afterward
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/tissue-toss/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260422T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260422T170000
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260427T162216Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T162216Z
UID:10000332-1776844800-1776877200@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Lunchbox Pack-Up Game
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nChildren are expected to clean up after lunch and pack their belongings independently. \nHow to do it:\nAfter a meal or snack\, practice putting containers\, wrappers\, and utensils back into a lunchbox. Show your child how to organize items neatly. \nWhat to look for: \n\nPacks items independently\nKeeps track of belongings\nCompletes the task with minimal help
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/lunchbox-pack-up-game/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260421
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260422
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260427T162044Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T162108Z
UID:10000331-1776729600-1776815999@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Bedtime Routine Chart Game
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nA consistent bedtime routine helps children get enough sleep\, which is essential for attention\, behavior\, and learning at school. \nHow to do it:\nCreate a simple visual chart with steps like putting on pajamas\, brushing teeth\, and reading a book. Go through the routine each night and check off each step together. \nWhat to look for: \n\nFollows the routine with fewer reminders\nUnderstands the sequence of steps\nTransitions smoothly to bedtime
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/bedtime-routine/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260419
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260420
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260427T161905Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T161905Z
UID:10000330-1776556800-1776643199@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Family Café
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nLunchtime in kindergarten involves sitting\, eating\, and managing food independently. Children need to remain seated and focused during meals. \nHow to do it:\nTurn mealtime into a pretend “restaurant.” Have your child sit at the table for the entire meal and practice using utensils\, opening items\, and cleaning up afterward. Keep the experience fun but structured. \nWhat to look for: \n\nRemains seated during meals\nEats independently\nCleans up after eating
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/family-cafe/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260419
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260420
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260427T161805Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T161805Z
UID:10000329-1776556800-1776643199@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Help Me\, Please!
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nIn kindergarten\, children must be able to ask for help appropriately. This builds communication skills and ensures their needs are met without frustration or withdrawal. \nHow to do it:\nRole-play common classroom situations where your child might need help\, such as opening a container or understanding directions. Practice using phrases like “Can you help me\, please?” Encourage eye contact and a calm voice. \nWhat to look for: \n\nUses words instead of actions to ask for help\nSpeaks politely and clearly\nSeeks help when needed rather than giving up
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/help-me-please/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260418T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260418T170000
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260427T161703Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T161703Z
UID:10000328-1776499200-1776531600@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Toy Sorting Game
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nSorting and organizing are important classroom skills. Children are expected to clean up materials and return them to the correct place. This also supports early math skills such as categorizing and recognizing similarities and differences. \nHow to do it:\nProvide a variety of toys and ask your child to sort them into groups (by color\, type\, or size). Use labeled bins or baskets if possible. You can model first\, then let your child take the lead. \nWhat to look for: \n\nGroups items correctly\nUnderstands simple categories\nCleans up with increasing independence
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/toy-sorting-game/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260417T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260417T170000
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260427T161525Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T161525Z
UID:10000327-1776412800-1776445200@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Simon Says (1 Step)
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nFollowing directions is essential in kindergarten\, where teachers give instructions throughout the day. Being able to listen\, process\, and act on a direction helps children participate in learning activities and stay safe. \nHow to do it:\nPlay “Simon Says” using simple one-step directions such as “touch your head\,” “jump\,” or “clap your hands.” Keep directions clear and fun. This game builds listening skills while keeping your child engaged and active. \nWhat to look for: \n\nListens carefully before responding\nFollows directions accurately\nResponds without needing repeated prompts
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/simon-says-1-step/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260416
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260417
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260427T161405Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T161405Z
UID:10000326-1776297600-1776383999@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Waiting Game
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nWaiting is a critical skill in kindergarten. Children are often expected to wait for a turn\, wait in line\, or wait for a teacher to help them. Learning to wait helps build self-regulation\, patience\, and emotional control\, which are all essential for successful participation in a classroom environment. Without this skill\, children may become frustrated or act out when things do not happen immediately. \nHow to do it:\nTurn waiting into a simple and playful game. Ask your child to “freeze and wait” before starting something they enjoy\, like eating a snack or opening a toy. Start with very short wait times (5–10 seconds) and gradually increase the length as your child becomes more comfortable. You can also narrate what they are doing well: “You are waiting so patiently!” This helps reinforce the behavior in a positive way. \nWhat to look for: \n\nWaits for short periods without becoming upset\nShows growing patience over time\nBegins to understand that waiting is part of routines
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/waiting-game/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260415
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260416
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260427T161027Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T161121Z
UID:10000325-1776211200-1776297599@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Toothbrushing Timer Dance
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\n Healthy hygiene routines support overall well-being and independence. \nHow to do it:\n Use a song to guide brushing time. Encourage brushing all parts of the mouth while making it fun. \nWhat to look for: \n\nBrushes for full time\nCovers all areas\nCompletes routine independently
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/toothbrushing-timer-dance/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260414
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260415
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260424T161427Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260424T161427Z
UID:10000324-1776124800-1776211199@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Switch-It-Up Game
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\n Transitions are a major part of kindergarten. Learning to stop one activity and move to another helps prevent frustration. \nHow to do it:\n Have your child clean up one activity before starting another. Give warnings like “one more minute.” \nWhat to look for: \n\nTransitions with less resistance\nCleans up before moving on\nResponds to warnings\n\n  \n 
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/switch-it-up-game/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260413
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260414
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260421T200242Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260424T161122Z
UID:10000323-1776038400-1776124799@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Storytime Listener Game – Earn a sticker for quiet listening
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nListening and attending during storytime builds early literacy\, comprehension\, and group participation skills. \nHow to do it:\nRead aloud and encourage your child to listen without interrupting. Ask simple questions after to check understanding. \nWhat to look for: \n\nMaintains attention\nResponds to questions\nShows interest in stories
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/storytime-listener/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260412
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260413
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260421T200037Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260424T161151Z
UID:10000322-1775952000-1776038399@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Dress-Yourself Fashion Show – Show off outfits at the end
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nIndependent dressing builds confidence and supports daily routines at school. \nHow to do it:\nLet your child choose an outfit and get dressed. Offer help only if needed. Celebrate with a fashion show to build pride. \nWhat to look for: \n\nAttempts independently\nPuts clothing on correctly\nShows confidence in choices
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/dress-yourself/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260411
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260412
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260421T195909Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260421T195909Z
UID:10000321-1775865600-1775951999@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Pants Up/Down Obstacle Course – Add silly movements in between
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nClothing management is essential for bathroom independence and confidence. \nHow to do it:\nAdd fun movements like jumping or spinning between practicing pulling pants up and down. Keep it playful and low-pressure. \nWhat to look for: \n\nManages clothing without frustration\nUses both hands effectively\nCompletes task without assistance
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/pants-up-down-obstacle-course/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260410
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260411
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260421T194332Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260421T194332Z
UID:10000320-1775779200-1775865599@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Backpack Parade – Walk around the house with a backpack
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nCarrying and managing a backpack is part of daily school routines and builds responsibility. \nHow to do it:\nLet your child wear a backpack with a few light items. Practice putting it on\, taking it off\, and walking safely. Celebrate their independence. \nWhat to look for: \n\nPuts on and removes backpack independently\nCarries it comfortably\nTreats belongings with care
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/backpack-parade/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260409
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260410
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260421T194124Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260421T194124Z
UID:10000319-1775692800-1775779199@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Messy Face Cleanup Game – Use napkins to erase pretend “food paint”
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nSelf-care after eating supports hygiene and independence. Teachers often remind but cannot individually assist every child. \nHow to do it:\nAfter meals\, hand your child a napkin and guide them to check their face and hands. Make it playful by pretending they are “cleaning off paint.” \nWhat to look for: \n\nWipes face and hands without prompting\nNotices when they are messy\nCompletes the task thoroughly
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/messy-face/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260408
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260409
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260421T194007Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260421T194007Z
UID:10000318-1775606400-1775692799@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Snack Detective – Open containers to “find the snack treasure”
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nChildren must open their own lunch containers and packaging at school. Struggling with this can lead to frustration or missed eating time. \nHow to do it:\nHide snacks inside containers and let your child “investigate” how to open them. Include different types (zippers\, lids\, wrappers). Encourage persistence before stepping in. \nWhat to look for: \n\nTries multiple strategies to open items\nAsks for help appropriately if needed\nOpens common containers independently
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/snack-detective/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260407
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260408
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260421T193858Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260421T193858Z
UID:10000317-1775520000-1775606399@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Morning Routine Pretend Play – Act out getting ready for school
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nPredictable routines reduce anxiety and help children transition smoothly into the school day. Knowing what comes next builds confidence and independence. \nHow to do it:\n Act out a full morning routine in a playful way—waking up\, getting dressed\, brushing teeth\, eating breakfast\, and heading “to school.” You can even role-play being the teacher greeting them. \nWhat to look for: \n\nRemembers steps in order\nCompletes parts of the routine independently\nShows understanding of what mornings will look like
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/morning-routine/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260406
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260407
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260421T193744Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260421T193744Z
UID:10000316-1775433600-1775519999@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Sit & Play Station – Do puzzles\, blocks\, or coloring for 5 minutes
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nKindergarten requires children to sit and focus for short periods during activities like centers\, writing\, and listening time. Building this stamina gradually helps prevent frustration and increases success. \nHow to do it:\n Set up a quiet activity such as puzzles\, coloring\, or building. Start with 5 minutes and use a visual timer if helpful. Stay nearby for support\, but encourage your child to stay engaged. Slowly increase time as their focus improves. \nWhat to look for: \n\nStays engaged for the full time\nReturns to task with minimal prompting\nShows pride in completing an activity
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/sit-play-station/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260405
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260406
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260421T193618Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260421T193618Z
UID:10000315-1775347200-1775433599@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Clean-Up Song Party – Race the music to put toys away
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nIn kindergarten\, children are expected to clean up materials before transitioning to the next activity. This builds responsibility\, respect for shared materials\, and understanding of classroom routines. \nHow to do it:\n Play a fun clean-up song and make it a game to see how much can be cleaned before the music stops. Give simple directions like “let’s put all the blocks in the bin.” Work alongside your child at first\, then gradually step back. \nWhat to look for: \n\nParticipates in clean-up willingly\nPuts items in correct places\nCleans up with fewer reminders over time
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/clean-up-song-party-race-the-music-to-put-toys-away/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260404
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260405
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260421T193431Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260421T193431Z
UID:10000314-1775260800-1775347199@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Jacket Station – Play “arrival time” and hang up jackets like at school
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nManaging personal belongings is a daily expectation in kindergarten. Children are responsible for taking off and hanging up jackets\, which supports independence\, organization\, and responsibility. \nHow to do it:\n Set up a designated “jacket station” at home using a hook or chair. Practice a simple arrival routine: come in\, take off shoes if needed\, remove jacket\, and hang it up. You can model first\, then let your child try. Repetition helps this become automatic. \nWhat to look for: \n\nHangs up jacket with minimal help\nRemembers where items belong\nBegins doing this without reminders
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/jacket-station/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260403
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260404
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260415T173727Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260415T174208Z
UID:10000313-1775174400-1775260799@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Shoe Race
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\n Transitions in kindergarten happen quickly—lining up for recess\, returning to class\, or preparing for dismissal. Children who can independently put on their shoes are more confident and less likely to feel rushed or frustrated during these moments. \nHow to do it:\n Invite your child to a “shoe race\,” but keep the tone light and pressure-free. Demonstrate how to check left vs. right shoes and how to open\, place\, and secure them (Velcro or slip-on is ideal at this stage). You can race together or simply time them and celebrate improvement. Practice regularly rather than expecting perfection. \nWhat to look for: \n\nAttempts independently before asking for help\nPlaces shoes on correct feet\nFastens shoes with increasing ease\n\n  \n 
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/shoe-race/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260402
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260403
DTSTAMP:20260502T035632
CREATED:20260415T171819Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260415T171819Z
UID:10000312-1775088000-1775174399@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Bathroom Independence Challenge
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:[Text Wrapping Break] Kindergarten classrooms require full bathroom independence. Teachers cannot assist with wiping or managing clothing\, so children need to feel confident completing all steps on their own. Mastery of this skill reduces anxiety\, prevents accidents\, and supports a child’s dignity and confidence in a school setting.  \nHow to do it:[Text Wrapping Break] Frame this as a “big kid superhero mission.” Walk through each step: going into the bathroom\, using the toilet\, wiping thoroughly\, flushing\, adjusting clothing\, and washing hands. Give your child time to try independently\, even if it takes longer. Offer gentle reminders instead of stepping in right away. Normalize mistakes and reassure them that learning takes practice.  \nWhat to look for:  \n\nCompletes the full routine independently \n\n\nManages clothing without help \n\n\nRemembers to wash hands afterward 
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/bathroom-independence-challenge/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR