BEGIN:VCALENDAR
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PRODID:-//The Children's Council of Watauga County - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
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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X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:UTC
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TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:UTC
DTSTART:20250101T000000
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260419
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260420
DTSTAMP:20260502T050431
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:20260502T050431
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:20260502T050431
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:20260502T050431
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:20260502T050431
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:20260502T050431
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:20260502T050431
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:20260502T050431
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:20260502T050431
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:20260502T050431
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:20260502T050431
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:20260502T050431
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:20260502T050431
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:20260502T050431
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:20260502T050431
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:20260502T050431
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:20260502T050431
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:20260502T050431
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
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260401
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260402
DTSTAMP:20260502T050431
CREATED:20260409T213903Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260415T173534Z
UID:10000310-1775001600-1775087999@thechildrenscouncil.org
SUMMARY:Bubble Handwash Game
DESCRIPTION:Why it’s important:\nHandwashing is a foundational health and independence skill in kindergarten. Children are expected to wash their hands multiple times a day without direct assistance. Proper handwashing reduces the spread of illness in classrooms and helps children stay healthy and present for learning. Beyond hygiene\, this skill also builds routine-following\, sequencing (first soap\, then scrub\, then rinse)\, and independence. \nHow to do it:\nTurn handwashing into a sensory and playful experience. Tell your child the soap creates “germ-fighting bubbles” and challenge them to cover every part of their hands. Model each step slowly: wet hands\, add soap\, scrub palms\, backs\, between fingers\, thumbs\, and nails. Sing a song together to ensure they scrub for at least 20 seconds. After rinsing\, show how to dry hands completely. Over time\, step back and let your child lead the process. \nWhat to look for: \n\nRemembers most steps without prompting\nScrubs for an appropriate length of time\nBegins initiating handwashing independently
URL:https://thechildrenscouncil.org/event/bubble-handwash-game/
CATEGORIES:Countdown to Kindergarten
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR