Countdown to Kindergarten
Events
-
-
Waiting Game
Countdown to KindergartenWhy it’s important: Waiting 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. […]
-
Simon Says (1 Step)
Countdown to KindergartenWhy it’s important: Following 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 […]
-
Toy Sorting Game
Countdown to KindergartenWhy it’s important: Sorting 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 […]
-
Help Me, Please!
Countdown to KindergartenWhy it’s important: In kindergarten, children must be able to ask for help appropriately. This builds communication skills and ensures their needs are met without frustration or withdrawal. How to […]
-
Family Café
Countdown to KindergartenWhy it’s important: Lunchtime in kindergarten involves sitting, eating, and managing food independently. Children need to remain seated and focused during meals. How to do it: Turn mealtime into a […]
-
Bedtime Routine Chart Game
Countdown to KindergartenWhy it’s important: A consistent bedtime routine helps children get enough sleep, which is essential for attention, behavior, and learning at school. How to do it: Create a simple visual […]
-
Lunchbox Pack-Up Game
Countdown to KindergartenWhy it’s important: Children are expected to clean up after lunch and pack their belongings independently. How to do it: After a meal or snack, practice putting containers, wrappers, and utensils back into a lunchbox. Show your child how to organize items neatly. What to look for: Packs items independently Keeps track of belongings Completes […]
-
Tissue Toss
Countdown to KindergartenWhy it’s important: Using tissues properly helps prevent the spread of germs in the classroom and promotes healthy habits. How to do it: Teach 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. What to […]
-
Blow the Feather
Countdown to KindergartenWhy it’s important: Learning to blow air gently through the nose is a step toward independently managing runny noses, which is important in a classroom setting. How to do it: Place a feather or cotton ball on a table and encourage your child to blow it using controlled breaths. Keep it light and playful. What […]
-
Simon Says (2 Steps)
Countdown to KindergartenWhy it’s important: Kindergarten instructions often include multiple steps. Being able to remember and follow two-step directions supports learning and participation. How to do it: Play “Simon Says” with directions like “clap then jump” or “touch your head then spin.” Start simple and increase complexity as your child improves. What to look for: Completes both […]
-
Finish-the-Mission Game
Countdown to KindergartenWhy it’s important: Task completion is an important skill for school success. Children need to be able to start and finish activities before moving on. How to do it: Give […]
-
Try-It Day
Countdown to KindergartenWhy it’s important: Trying new things independently builds confidence, resilience, and problem-solving skills. How to do it: Encourage your child to try a new task on their own, such as […]