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Early Childhood Transition: Family Resources 

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Early Childhood Transition: Family Resources 

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http://bit.ly/4p466iB

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Early Childhood Transition: Family Resources

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FRC Pack: Getting Ready for Kindergarten

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FRC Pack: Getting Ready for Kindergarten

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You do not need to drill your child with letters, numbers, and facts, before school starts. But there are some things you can do to prepare both you and your child for kindergarten. Here are some ideas.

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Stepping Into Kindergarten Guide in different languages

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Stepping Into Kindergarten Guide in different languages

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https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/office-for-children/school-readiness/stepping-into-kindergarten

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You Are an Important Part of the Picture

Good Communication Begins at Home
In kindergarten, your child will be talking with others throughout the day. Your child will need to:

Communicate their needs and wants.

Describe different people, places, objects and events.

Share something that happened during the day or the day before.

Engage in cooperative play.

When you and your child talk in your home language, you are building communication skills.

Talk with your child about what you are doing and what they are doing.

Ask questions about what happened during a game or on a visit with a friend.

Ask about what happened first, next and last.

Ask your child to include details that describe objects and actions.

Ask your child to follow simple directions.

Ask your child to predict what will happen next.

Routines Help Prepare Your Child to be Ready for Kindergarten
Having routines at home will help prepare your child to follow routines in kindergarten.

Set a regular morning schedule (wake up, dress, eat, go to preschool or plan the day).

Make sure breakfast is part of the morning routine.

Have meals and snack times at about the same time.

Schedule physical activities.

Schedule when screen time will be allowed.

Plan transitions from one activity to another.

Set out supplies for the next day.

Plan time for reading every day.

Set a regular bedtime routine.

Getting Along With Others
Getting along with others is a skill that makes the transition to kindergarten easier for children. Children who can get along with others know how to:

Spend time with other children and adults.

Play cooperatively and take turns.

Share toys.

Solve problems with words.

Respect people and property.

Ask for help.

Make friends.

Talk about their feelings.

Use words like please, thank you, excuse me, I'm sorry, I need help, I can try it.

Follow simple directions.

Separate from you and other family members.

Building Healthy Bodies and Minds

Set a regular bedtime routine to ensure your child is getting enough sleep. Most young children need 10 to 13 hours of sleep. Your child will not have naptime in kindergarten.
Exercise
Make regular physical activity a part of your family routine. Play games that encourage activities like running, climbing, throwing, jumping, kicking a ball, balancing on one foot, swinging on a swing.

Have your child help you make healthy snacks and meals. Encourage your child to choose a new food to try each week. In kindergarten, your child can bring their own lunch from home or make their own food choices in the cafeteria.

Talk about what they are seeing on the screens (computers, iPads, TV). Set a limit on screen time, especially before bed time.
Emotional Development and Self-Regulation
Discuss and be consistent with rules and consequences. Help you child understand making mistakes is part of learning. Encourage them to keep trying even when it is hard. Encourage your child to find multiple solutions to a problem. Help them to plan, focus and remember.

A Seasonal Calendar of School Readiness Experiences

If you have concerns about your child's development, call Fairfax County Public Early Childhood Identification and Services, 571-423-4121. They will provide information about interventions, workshops, screening and evaluations. These "Child Find" services are provided for children ages 20 months through five years.

Throughout the Year

Sing songs and tell and retell stories.

Read books. Discuss what is happening.

Look for the letters in your child's name.

Help your child notice words that rhyme or start with the same sound.

Work on puzzles.

Play simple board games.

Use markers, crayons and pencils to draw pictures.

Practice using scissors.

Play sorting and counting games.

Count and use numbers.

Encourage your child to use color, shape and size words when describing objects.

Play physically active games.

Play games where your child must stand

or sit quietly.

Visit the library regularly. Help your child choose books.

Encourage your child to ask questions.

Fall (September - November)

Take family walks together to look for signs of fall.

Search for squirrels burying nuts, geese flying overhead and leaves changing colors. Talk about the changes in the weather.

Teach your child to put on and take off their coat and practice buttoning and/or zipping.

Winter (December - February)
Registration for Kindergarten

Use the Fairfax County Public Schools Boundary Information System to determine where your child will attend kindergarten.

Visit that elementary school.

Begin to gather the documents you need to register your child for kindergarten. These include proof of residency, birth certificate, and health and immunization records. Registration procedures and forms are available at www.fcps.edu or you can pick up a registration packet at any Fairfax County elementary school.

Contact your local elementary school to find the dates for any kindergarten registration and kindergarten orientation events.

Plan to attend a kindergarten readiness workshop in your community.

Contact your early childhood education programs to see if a "Transition to Kindergarten" event is planned for families.

If you will need before and after school care, contact Fairfax County School Age Child Care or use the Office for Children's "Child Care Search" tool.

Activities With Your Child

Bundle up and spend some family time outdoors.

Talk about the changes your child sees in the environment. Look for trees that have lost their leaves and ones that are still green. Look for berries and pine cones.

Find time every day to share a book together. Share books with stories about winter. Talk with your child about favorite stories you have read.

Spring (March - May)
Registration for Kindergarten

Arrange an appointment with your pediatrician or health clinic.

Complete all registration paperwork and turn it in to your local elementary school.

Attend kindergarten orientation programs that are scheduled at your neighborhood elementary school.

Sign an exchange of information form to allow your early childhood program to share information with the elementary school your child will attend.

"Like" or "Follow" the Facebook page of the school your child will be attending. Follow the school on Twitter.

Register to receive Fairfax County Public Schools: News You Choose to get regular updates from the school. To subscribe, visit the FCPS Subscriber Preferences Page and provide an email address. Select TOPIC. Select ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS. Select a school.

More Activities With Your Child

Start talking with your child about kindergarten.

Ask the librarian to recommend books about starting kindergarten.

See if you can schedule a visit to the school with your child and visit a kindergarten room.

Visit the school playground.

See if someone will let your child see the inside of a bus.

Visit places in your community like the fire or police station, the post office, or the farmers market.

Make a grocery list with your child. Have them find those items at the store.

Summer (June - August)
Transition to Kindergarten

Write a letter to the school introducing your child.

Visit the school's website often and watch for information about "Back to School" events.

Visit your child's elementary school throughout the summer.

Plan play times with other children who will attend the same school.

Choose the place at home where you will keep your child's kindergarten supplies, such as their backpack and library books.

More Activities With Your Child

Your child should know their full name and what it looks like in print. If they go by a nickname or other name, they need to also know their birth name.

Have your child practice eating independently (open juice boxes etc.).

Buy clothes that are easy to put on and take off.

Review safety rules such as walk on the sidewalk and don't cross the street without a grown-up.

Transitioning to Kindergarten

Every kindergarten class is different, but all kindergarten classes allow children to take part in whole group, small group and individual learning experiences throughout the day. To the right is a sample kindergarten schedule.

Children will have an easier transition to kindergarten if they are:

Problem solvers.

Comfortable in new environments.

Decision makers.

Curious.

Risk takers.

Good communicators.

Connecting with Community Resources

Each library branch has a special section of children's books designed to build your child's imagination and early literacy skills. Up to 50 books can be borrowed for three weeks at a time. Books are available in several languages. Special activities and story times are offered throughout the year for preschool and school-age children. The monthly "Ready to Read" newsletter available on the library website provides great ideas for books to read to your child.

Enjoyable classes for preschoolers are available in "Parktakes" magazine, found online or at your public library. Fairfax County has numerous parks of varying sizes. Two parks that may be of special interest to families of young children are:

Clemyjontri is a two-acre playground divided into four outdoor "rooms." It is accessible to all children, including those with physical disabilities. It has a carousel and picnic pavilion.
6317 Georgetown Pike, McLean, VA 22101 703-388-2807.

Frying Pan Farm Park includes a replica of a 1920's farm, a carousel, hayrides, country store and Visitor's Center. Children can see a variety of farm animals and old farm equipment. Picnic tables and a playground are available.
2709 West Ox Road, Herndon, VA 20171
703-437-9101.

Immunizations
Documentation of immunization is required for children entering kindergarten. The Fairfax County Health Department offers required school immunizations for free at clinic locations.

Visit our website for a list of locations and required school immunizations.

Dental
Some locations may offer dental services for children - an appointment is needed.

Helpful Resources for Families

Publications

Helping Your Child Love to Learn
Learn about early childhood development from birth to age 5. Discover activities families and educators can introduce to encourage growth in science, math, literacy, language, creative arts, social and emotional development, and health and physical development. Available in multiple languages.

Fairfax County Public Schools Parent Advocacy Handbook: Getting Ready for Kindergarten
As your child's first teacher, you help them get ready for kindergarten. Available in multiple languages.

Web Pages

Fairfax County Public Schools Kindergarten Registration
The kindergarten registration page has information to help parents to complete the 5-step process for student enrollment. FCPS webpages are available in multiple languages.

Fairfax County Public Schools Kindergarten
This web page has information about the FCPS Kindergarten experience. For questions, call 703-204-6734 or send an e-mail to RegistrationQuestions@fcps.edu.

Helping Children Learn Newsletter (English and Spanish)
This newsletter has school success ideas for parents.

Daily Learning Planner (English and Spanish)
These monthly calendars have ideas families can use to help children prepare for school.

Videos

Apps

Vroom
Vroom's brain building tips are a fun way for families and early educators to help children learn and develop the skills they will need in school and beyond. This free app is available on iOS and Android devices (computers, tablets, smartphones). The app is available in English and Spanish.

CDC Milestone Tracker
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Milestone Tracker helps you track your child's progress. It includes suggestions to support children's development from 2 months to 5 years of age. This free app is available on iOS and Android devices and is available in English and Spanish.

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Good Communication Begins at Home In kindergarten, your child will be talking with others throughout the day. Your child will need to: Communicate their needs and wants. Describe different people, places, objects and events. Share something that happened during the day or the day before. Engage in cooperative play.

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How to Get Your Child Ready for Kindergarten

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How to Get Your Child Ready for Kindergarten

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How to Get Your Child Ready for Kindergarten

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Starting kindergarten can be stressful for kids. Here’s how to make the transition easier for your child.

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5-Step Registration Process - Written Instructions

Two factors determine a student's eligibility to enroll in FCPS: residency and age.

Residency

Children must be living with a parent and residing in Fairfax County.

Age

A child may enter kindergarten if he or she turns five on or before September 30 of the year he or she enters school.

This age requirement also applies to students who transfer from other school districts after the start of the school year.

The age requirement is set by Virginia law, and FCPS is not able to make exceptions.
Is kindergarten mandatory?
Virginia law states that parents must ensure a child attends school, if he or she will be five years old on or before September 30.

However, if, in your opinion as a parent, your child is not mentally, physically, or emotionally prepared to attend school, he or she may be exempted for that year. You will need to notify your local school if you do not want your child to attend kindergarten until the following year.

Once a student turns six, school attendance is mandatory. Grade placement (either kindergarten or first grade) will be determined at the time of enrollment with consideration for factors such as age, academic records, and school readiness.
Planning to home school your kindergartner?
See Home Instruction for the option for home schooling your child.

Kindergarten students are registered at the local school.

Find your local school by using the FCPS Boundary Locator. School contact information is listed in the Schools Directory.

Families who need language assistance may contact the closest Student Registration Welcome Center:

At FCPS Student Registration Welcome Centers, you can ask questions and request information about enrollment in most languages. At the centers, professionals may assess your student's English language skill and/or educational level. These assessments can provide valuable information to the local school and support your child's instructional needs.

Special Registration Situations

Depending on circumstances (nonparent registrations, divorced or separated parents, homelessness, foster care and foreign exchange students), you will register at either the local school or a Student Registration Welcome Center. Please see Special Registration Situations.

Parents registering their children must provide several documents including proof of residency in Fairfax County, child's birth certificate, parent's government issued identification, child's health information, and child's immunizations.

See General Registration Documents (link below) for complete information regarding necessary documentation.

Please bring the registration documents to your appointment with a registrar (see Step 5).

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Two factors determine a student's eligibility to enroll in FCPS: residency and age. Children must be living with a parent and residing in Fairfax County. A child may enter kindergarten if he or she turns five on or before September 30 of the year he or she enters school.

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Spanish- Success in Kindergarten: Parent Strategies

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Spanish- Success in Kindergarten: Parent Strategies

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Starting Kindergarten? Help Make It a Good Experience!

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Starting Kindergarten? Help Make It a Good Experience!

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Starting Kindergarten? Help Make It a Good Experience!

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Starting kindergarten can be an anxious or an exciting experience for children. These tips will help you start your child off right. This article is also available in Spanish.

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Success in Kindergarten: Parent Strategies

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Success in Kindergarten: Parent Strategies

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How to Get Your Child Ready for the First Day of Kindergarten

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How to Get Your Child Ready for the First Day of Kindergarten

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Reviewed By:

What can parents do to help prepare?

Establish strong routines at home.

Routines help children learn, make them feel safe and in control of their world, and foster their self-confidence and sense of belonging within the family. Some key family routines that will help children feel ready for kindergarten include:

Bedtime Routines

Bedtime routines ensure kids get a good night's sleep and will be ready for the next day's adventures. Some important parts of a bedtime routine include a consistent bedtime and a predictable order of activities (e.g., take a bath, put on pajamas, brush teeth, read favorite story or sing favorite song, get a goodnight hug or kiss from their caregiver).

Reading Routines

Parents are encouraged to read with their children for at least 20 minutes a day to build language and literacy skills. This reading routine can be part of the bedtime routine or at another time convenient for you and your child. A good way to make this time child-centered (and increase your child's enjoyment and engagement in this time together) is by letting your child pick out the book.

Family Mealtime Routines

Having a family mealtime routine is not only an opportunity to teach your children about healthy eating habits, but is also a chance to spend quality time talking with your children, which builds their language and strengthens their relationship with you. You can also build in routines around mealtime that will be useful to your children in school, such as washing your hands before dinner or teaching them how to clear dishes from the table.

Stay up to date with vaccinations.

Take your child to the pediatrician for a checkup, and make sure all immunizations needed for kindergarten are up to date.

Tell your child what to expect.

Talk to your child about what kindergarten will be like to help them start preparing for this big transition. Children often have lots of questions about kindergarten, particularly if they are starting at a new school.

Spend time talking with your child about what kindergarten will be like (e.g., who will be the teacher, what will the daily school routine look like, etc.).

Involve him or her in picking out their school materials (e.g., backpack, clothes, etc.).

You can also talk about what going to kindergarten was like for you as a way to model how your child can share feelings about kindergarten.

Once school begins, what are some conversation starters parents can use to get their child talking about school?

Ideally, talking with your child about school should be part of your family's daily routine. Talking with your children not only gives you an opportunity to learn what they are doing in school and how they feel about school, but also provides an opportunity for you to communicate that school is important.

But getting conversations started with your young child about school is not always easy, as some children provide very little detail in response to the question, "How was school today?"

So here are a few other ways that you can get the conversation started with your children about school:

Ask your children to tell you one new thing they did or learned about in school that day.

Ask your children to tell you one thing they liked and one thing that was difficult about school that day.

Ask your children about who they played with in school and what games they played.

Create a family routine around talking about your day. For example, during mealtime or another time when you are spending time with your children, you can model how to talk about your day by sharing one or two things that you did that day and then asking your children to share one or two things about their day.

What specific aspects of kindergarten do new students struggle with?

Kindergarten is much more rigorous today than when most parents were growing up. In fact, children spend much more time engaged in structured reading and math activities than time spent in socialization and play-based learning. As a result, there is a mismatch between a child's developmental stage and the academic skills he or she is required to master. Below are some of the issues that new kindergarteners may struggle with:

A longer school day . Many children transition to kindergarten from half-day preschool programs, so spending a full day of school engaged in structured activities can be a difficult adjustment for them.

Transitions . Transitioning from one activity to another is challenging for most young children, particularly when they have to stop a preferred activity (e.g., playing) to engage in something challenging (e.g., learning to read), and a typical kindergarten school day is full of these transitions.

Sitting still and paying attention for long periods of time. The format of kindergarten has become much more structured and passive in nature, meaning young children are being required to sit still and pay attention to their teacher and to schoolwork for longer periods of time. This can be challenging for many kindergarteners who are still developing self-control and skills that help them sit still, focus and follow directions.

What are signs that a child isn't adjusting well to kindergarten?

The teacher reports that your child is having significant difficulty listening and following directions at school.

Your child becomes verbally or physically aggressive toward peers or school staff.

Your child has frequent temper tantrums at school.

Your child expresses reluctance about getting ready for school in the morning. This may manifest as taking a long time to get ready in the morning, or saying things like "I don't want to go to school" or "I don't like school."

After a month or more of school, your child is still very tearful and clingy with you when you drop him or her off at school in the morning.

Your child appears more sad, worried or irritable than before school started.

Your child is having repeated daytime toileting accidents while at school.

At what point should parents consider seeking professional help?

Your child is engaging in frequent disruptive behaviors at school (e.g., temper tantrums, verbal or physical aggression toward school staff or other children, destruction of classroom property, leaving the classroom without permission, etc.).

Your child is frequently getting in trouble at school.

Your child is displaying a lot of anxiety about school, which may take the form of expressed worries about teachers, peers or schoolwork and significant efforts to avoid going to school.

Your child is more frequently tearful, sad or irritable and reports less interest in activities he or she typically enjoys since school started.

Your child is having frequent toileting accidents at school despite being toilet trained for some time.

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How to Get Your Child Ready for the First Day of Kindergarten

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Reviewed By: Routines help children learn, make them feel safe and in control of their world, and foster their self-confidence and sense of belonging within the family. Some key family routines that will help children feel ready for kindergarten include: Bedtime Routines Bedtime routines ensure kids get a good night's sleep and will be ready for the next day's adventures.

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Ready or Not Kindergarten, Here We Come!

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Ready or Not Kindergarten, Here We Come!

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Ready or Not Kindergarten, Here We Come!

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While many of us focus on the basics of letter and number recognition or reading skills, kindergarten readiness encompasses more than a few isolated skills. Here are some tips to help you prepare your child for Kindergarten.

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How to Ease Your Child's Kindergarten Jitters

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How to Ease Your Child's Kindergarten Jitters

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An expert offers advice for reducing anxiety and making those difficult goodbyes easier.

I'll never forget leaving my eldest child with his kindergarten teacher on the first day of school. He did just fine, while I went home and cried. Despite my child's reaction, starting school can be challenging and even traumatic for many children. Whether your child has been home with a parent or babysitter or has had years of preschool, here are some strategies to soothe their jitters-and your own-and make this important milestone easier for everyone.

Practice Saying Goodbye

1. Create a special goodbye. Practice a special, private goodbye just between the two of you-like a secret handshake or special kiss-to help your child start to pull away. Then tell them you'll be using that same goodbye at every drop-off.

2. Teach a coping skill. Research shows that when kids feel they have some control over their situation and can talk back to the fear, their anxiety decreases. Help your child feel in charge of the worry by teaching a self-reassurance phrase. For instance, have your child practice saying, "Go away, worry, leave me alone. Mommy will come back," when they're feeling anxious.

3. Use a magic pebble. Give your child a special memento like a pebble or a keychain with your photo to keep, and explain that whenever it's touched, it means you're thinking about them. You can also tuck a small square of their security blanket into their backpack or jacket to offer reassurance.

One way to ease kindergarten fears is to gradually stretch your separation periods several months before school begins. The goal is to slowly increase the number of caregivers children interact with so they feel comfortable with adults other than immediate family and realize that they can survive without their parents present. Here are other ideas that might help:

Learn the Lay of the Land

1. Visit the school. A few days before the big sendoff, take your child for a school tour to help find key places like the classroom, playground, school office, and water fountain. Many schools also now have websites that give online tours that show the school layout.

2. Help your child make just one pal. Knowing a classmate can minimize first day jitters, so if possible, help your child meet a peer before school starts. Ask parents or coaches in the area if they know a kindergarten-aged child who will be attending the school.

3. Practice social skills. Role-play common social scenarios your child will encounter at school, like how to meet someone, start up a conversation, ask if they can play in a game, or ask a teacher for help. Children learn social skills best if you show and don't tell them what to do, so practice one new skill at a time until your child can perform the skill without you.

Boosting your child's comfort with school helps reduce jitters, but don't overhype the new situation with comments like "What a gorgeous class!" or "You're going to be soooooo happy here!" These types of comments do not ease jitters-in fact, they can cause more anxiety by building up false expectations that don't pan out. Here are other ways to help your child feel more secure about starting school:

Address Your Child's Concerns Directly

Worry: "I won't remember the bus number." Solution: Write the bus number on an index card and pin it to the inside of their backpack. Find out if the school has practice bus rides.

Worry: "I'll have an accident." Solution: Promise to show your child the kindergarten bathroom and pack a change of clothes in their backpack.

Worry: "I'll get lost." Solution: Practice walking to the room before school starts.

Make sure you set aside time to chat with your child about the transition of starting school. Explain that worries like "Will I find friends?" and "What if I get lost?" are normal and usually go away in a few days. Keep in mind that though the worries may seem unrealistic, they are real to your child. Thank them for sharing the worries and then brainstorm solutions together. Here are some examples:

You might also read a book to help your child share their feelings and learn that others have similar fears. Here are a few good transition books that may help: The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn, First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg, The Night Before Kindergarten and The Night Before First Grade by Natasha Wing, and Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten by Joseph Slate.

Establish a Goodbye Ritual

A child's anxiety increases if you make too big of a deal about leaving or draw out the goodbye.

1. Point to a "first thing." Not knowing what to do or where to go upon arriving at a new scene increases anxiety. So, offer your child "first thing" suggestions. You might point toward an activity your child enjoys-like a puzzle or blocks-or suggest that they go to the sandbox or meet up with an acquaintance near the water fountain.

2. Say goodbye and don't linger. Don't draw out the goodbye-doing so increases anxiety. Offering a simple and matter-of-fact "See you soon!" and then leaving is a better approach than a long-drawn out farewell. On the flip side, don't sneak away, either.

3. Put on a happy face. Your child takes cues from you, so stay calm and show confidence in them. Hold back those tears till you're out of sight.

The key is to establish a consistent pattern of saying goodbye so your child knows what ritual to expect and that they will make it through the time apart, and understands that you really will return. Here are a few things to help make goodbyes less stressful:

Also, be sure you or your designated caregiver picks your child up at the time you said and at the exact spot you prearranged. In fact, be there five minutes early for the pickup to eliminate the agonizing moments a child will have if you're late. If your kid cries when you come for pickup, take it as a compliment. It usually means they are just delighted to see you.

Keep Your Eyes Open

Excessive clinginess that persists too long or interferes with a child's normal activities

Unrealistic worry about potential harm to loved ones or fear they will not return home

Physical symptoms such as stomachache or panic attacks before a parent leaves

Recurring nightmares about separation or reluctance to sleep alone

Excessive worry about being lost or about going places without a parent

There are a few signs that your child's worry may be something more than normal transition jitters. If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to talk to the teacher and a medical professional.

Hang in There-This Too Shall Pass

For most children, separation anxieties are normal and will pass. The key is to watch for a gradual increase in confidence and a diminishment of worries. If the anxiety continues or increases, check in with the teacher or counselor to see if they have suggestions to help your child adjust. Just remember that the adjustment process may take anywhere from a day to several weeks, so be patient. Helping your child learn to say goodbye and handle life confidently without you is just one more important developmental milestone and a part of growing up.

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How to Ease Your Child's Kindergarten Jitters

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An expert offers advice for reducing anxiety and making those difficult goodbyes easier. I'll never forget leaving my eldest child with his kindergarten teacher on the first day of school. He did just fine, while I went home and cried. Despite my child's reaction, starting school can be challenging and even traumatic for many children.

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Building a lifelong love of learning.

The kindergarten program is designed to encourage and support children's social, emotional, physical and intellectual development. Children are involved in daily learning experiences with speaking, reading, writing, mathematics, social sciences, science, technology, health, music, movement, and art. Kindergarten is offered in all schools and is a full day program. This video provides an overview of the FCPS Kindergarten program.

In helping children learn at home, the parents' primary role is one of encouragement and reinforcement. Parents can provide a variety of "hands-on" learning experiences that allow their children to learn through discovery, support their educational progress, and develop a love of learning. Research indicates that children are more successful in school when their parents are consistently involved in their school lives.

The kindergarten program:

Focuses on daily learning experiences that help children to communicate orally, interact with others, participate in problem-solving activities, and think critically.

Provides opportunities for children to interact with books, identify sounds, rhyme words, and develop letter-sound relationships.

Promotes writing development.

Encourages children to demonstrate mathematical understanding by using real objects as they discuss, investigate, question, and verify.

Enables children to acquire knowledge about themselves as individuals, and as members of a family, a community, and the world.

Offers opportunities for children to observe, explore, experiment, and investigate the world around them.

Utilizes a variety of learning centers and stations to reinforce skills.

Encourages children's creativity and higher-level thinking.

Provides for use of computers and appropriate software.

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Building a lifelong love of learning. The kindergarten program is designed to encourage and support children's social, emotional, physical and intellectual development. Children are involved in daily learning experiences with speaking, reading, writing, mathematics, social sciences, science, technology, health, music, movement, and art. Kindergarten is offered in all schools and is a full day program.

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Success in Kindergarten: Parent Strategies

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Success in Kindergarten: Parent Strategies

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Success in Kindergarten Parent Strategies

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Success in Kindergarten Parent Strategies

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Arabic- Success in Kindergarten: Parent Strategies

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Arabic- Success in Kindergarten: Parent Strategies

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Chinese- Success in Kindergarten: Parent Strategies

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Chinese- Success in Kindergarten: Parent Strategies

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Farsi- Success in Kindergarten: Parent Strategies

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Farsi- Success in Kindergarten: Parent Strategies

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Korean- Success in Kindergarten: Parent Strategies

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Korean- Success in Kindergarten: Parent Strategies

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Urdu- Success in Kindergarten: Parent Strategies

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Urdu- Success in Kindergarten: Parent Strategies

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Vietnamese- Success in Kindergarten: Parent Strategies

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Vietnamese- Success in Kindergarten: Parent Strategies

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Browse our selection of Kindergarten books here:

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Browse our selection of Kindergarten books here:

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Supporting a Preschooler's Successful Transition to Kindergarten

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Supporting a Preschooler's Successful Transition to Kindergarten

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Parent Advocacy Handbook: Getting Ready for Kindergarten

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Parent Advocacy Handbook: Getting Ready for Kindergarten

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As your child's first teacher, you help them get ready for kindergarten by developing their intellectual, social, emotional, and physical skills. Children who have positive experiences with learning before starting in kindergarten are more ready for school.

FCPS offers preschool programs to help you prepare your child to be ready for kindergarten. In addition Fairfax County Government offers preschool as well.

Be an Advocate
Build Awareness

Create an interesting and stimulating environment for your child.

Introduce them to new objects, events, and people.

Ask them questions and give them problems to solve

Encourage your child's interests and share your experiences.

Encourage Exploration

Make play a learning opportunity.

Discuss your child's activities with them.

Try to understand their thinking and how they learn.

Allow your child to make mistakes and learn from them.

Ask and Answer Questions

Help your child think through and understand questions.

Allow time for questions and answers.

Give answers when asked.

Ask specific questions, such as "What else works like this?" and "What happens if . . .?"

Guide and focus their attention.

Help them connect their ideas.

Build Language and Math Skills

Help your child learn about the letters and the sounds they make.

Read to your child and show enthusiasm for reading. Your local library can help.

Explore writing by drawing shapes, forming letters, and writing sentences.

Help your child copy, trace, and write letters.

Count and practice counting by asking "How many fingers do I have on this hand?" "How many pennies do I have?"

Help them learn to sort objects into groups by shape, color, or size.

Resources

Fairfax County offers many programs for pre-school aged children. Some programs are free of charge while others are not. It is important to apply early and follow up to insure a place for your child. If a program is full, ask to be placed on a wait list and monitor your child's position.

The Fairfax County Office for Children (OFC) offers many early education programs for children, including Healthy Families Fairfax and Infant and Toddler Connection. The Office also has information about programs and services:

Fairfax County Libraries

Fairfax County Parks Authority

Fairfax County Health

Fairfax County Human Services

Fairfax County Office of Housing and Community Development

Child Care Resources

Child Care Resource and Referral (CCRR). CCR promotes quality care for children by supporting families and providers, parents. If you need help paying for child care, the CCRR may provide financial help if your child attends a participating child care centers or family child care home. Contact: Fairfax County Office for Children (703) 449-8484. TTY (703) 324-3923) [email protected]

Programs for Children and Parents

Early Childhood Identification and Services (ECID&S). The ECID&S, or Child Find, identifies children with potential special education needs, and educates the community about child development and the importance of early identification. Child Find provides free screenings for children from 20 months to 5 years old.

Family and Early Childhood Education(FECEP/Head Start). FECEP/Head Start is a full-day child development program that primarily serves income-eligible children who are 3 and 4 years old. Head Start provides services that assist families with child education and development, health services (medical, dental, nutrition, and mental health), parent education, family literacy, and English for Speaks of Other Languages (ESOL).

OFC operates FECEP/Head Start in classrooms in many, but not all, FCPS elementary schools. If your school does not have a program, they may be assigned to another school. Spaces are very limited and based on income. Contact the Head Start Office at 703-208-7900 (English) or 703-208-7901Contact (703) 324-8290 (Spanish) to see if your child is eligible for FECEP/Head Start.

FCPS PreK and Early Head Start. Early Head Start is for children birth to 2 years old supporting pregnant women who live in the Reston, Herndon, and Springfield areas of Fairfax County. The application begins on January 1 each year for the coming school year. Apply as soon as possible because space is limited.

FCPS PreK and Early Head Start offers preschool and comprehensive services at no cost to qualifying families for children who will be age 3 or 4 by September 30 of the calendar year. The programs are managed by the FCPS Office of Early Childhood Curriculum and Grant Management. Contact the Head Start Office at 703-208-7900 (English) or 703-208-7901 (Spanish) for more information.

Family Literacy Program. The Family Literacy Program "supports residents with limited English skills, building literacy and community connections for students and their families." This two-generation approach works with parents and children to get the children ready for kindergarten.

Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY), HIPPY is a free program for parents of children ages 3 - 4 years old. Parents are taught to be their child's first teacher. HIPPY also strengthens parent-child relationship. HIPPY home visitors show parents how to teach: Shapes and Colors, Reading, Writing, Mathematics, Science and Language Development. Parents meet with a HIPPY-trained home instructor for an hour each week in the parent's home or with a small group of parents at a central location.

Early Literacy Program (ELP). The ELP is a free program for parents of children ages birth - 5 years old. ELP helps parents learn to teach basic skills needed to be ready for kindergarten. The program is similar to HIPPY and provides workshops two times a week for diverse parent groups.

Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI). VPI supports quality early childhood education programs for children with special needs; foster children; children under a CPS order; children in families who receive TANF or families that are enrolled in the VIEW program; or children of teen parents. There are VPI programs at many child development and learning centers in Northern Virginia.

Neighborhood School Readiness Teams NSRT is a collaboration of OFC, FCPS and Fairfax Futures. Learn more about school readiness by contacting the Office for Children, at 703-324-8100 TTY 711. The Office of Children is open 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday, at: 12011 Government Center Parkway, Suite 920, Fairfax, VA 22035. [email protected]

Other Opportunities for Children and Parents

Public Library: The Fairfax County Public Library offers special programs for children, including programs for infants and preschoolers. Many local libraries have regular story times for their visitors. You can borrow books from the Library to read and share with your child.

Recreation Centers: Fairfax County's Park Authority operates recreation centers throughout Fairfax County, which offer gym facilities, swimming pools, classes, and other recreational programs. You can find information about current classes and programs in Parktakes, a Parks Authority publication.

Parks: Fairfax County has many parks for play and exploration. Get to know the parks near you: Which ones have playgrounds, nature trails or Nature Centers?

Museums: There are many museums in the DC area. Some Smithsonian Museums that preschoolers might enjoy are:

National Zoo (live animals, including a petting zoo);

National Museum of Natural History (for dinosaurs and other exhibits about the natural world);

National Air and Space Museum (airplanes; space ships);

National Museum of American History (trains; farm equipment; toys).

All of the Smithsonian Museums are free of charge and most are accessible by public transportation.

Playground Fun!

Visit the playground at your local elementary schools regularly (after school and on weekends or holidays). Playgrounds offer preschoolers the opportunity for:

Physical activities

Meeting other children and work on their social skills; and

Developing a sense of comfort at, and growing familiarity with, school.

Child Find
Help for Children Who Need Special Education or Related Services
Help for Parents:

If you are concerned about your child's physical, intellectual, or emotional development, or

If you believe your child may need special education or related services, or they have a disability.

Preschool Child Find provides FREE screening for special education and related services for children 20 months through 5 years old. Child Find also provides liaison or referral services to community preschool, day care, Head Start, and FECEP programs.

For Children Ages Birth through Age 2: Contact the Infant and Toddler Connection (ITC) of Fairfax/Falls Church, (703) 246-7121 for information about a referral.

For Children Ages 2 through 4: Call 571-423-4121 for information about interventions, workshops, screening, and evaluations.

For School-Age Children and Young Adults with Disabilities (21 years or younger), contact your school's Local Screening Chairperson.

Common Questions

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Parent Advocacy Handbook: Getting Ready for Kindergarten

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As your child's first teacher, you help them get ready for kindergarten by developing their intellectual, social, emotional, and physical skills. Children who have positive experiences with learning before starting in kindergarten are more ready for school. FCPS offers preschool programs to help you prepare your child to be ready for kindergarten.

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Parent Advocacy Handbook: Elementary School (Grades K-6)

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Parent Advocacy Handbook: Elementary School (Grades K-6)

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There are many people at your child's elementary school who can work with you and your child to ensure student success. These individuals include administrative, instructional (classroom), and support staff. Make sure you know the names of each of these staff members and how to contact them if necessary.

Principal. Every school has one principal who is the chief administrator and instructional leader.

Assistant Principal. Assistant principals help the principal with planning, assessment, instructional leadership, and other tasks. Every school has at least one assistant principal. Elementary schools with more than 900 students have two assistant principals.

Teachers. Teachers are responsible for the day-to-day instruction of students. Elementary schools have many teachers, including:

Classroom Teacher. Your child's primary grade-level teacher.

Reading Teacher. The reading teacher offers special help in literacy and reading skills.

Special Education Teachers. SPED teachers provide individual instruction or assistance in the classroom for students with disabilities.

ESOL Teachers. ESOL teachers support English language learners.

AAP Resource Teacher: The advanced academics resource teacher offers services for students identified for advanced academic resources.

Equity Lead Teacher: The equity lead teacher works with the school principal to build relationships and foster a culturally responsive environment at school.

Instructional Assistants. Classroom assistants help teachers and students in large classes.

Librarian. Every elementary school has its own library that provides special reading programs for students and loans books to its students. The school librarian can assist parents in finding age- and reading-level appropriate books and reading material for your student. The librarian can help provide you and your student with access to technology.

Elementary School Counselor. The school counselor provides guidance lessons with children and consults with parents, teachers, and other staff to help the child's adjustment to school. School counselors also coordinate student services for children with special needs; helps students and parents find programs to help with academic work; and serves on committees for assessment and placement for special education and gifted and talented programs.

Office Assistants/Administrative Assistants. School office assistants schedule appointments, greet visitors, and get messages to school staff. If you have questions about registration, bus schedules, school lunches, immunization, or attendance, call the main office. Remember they are busiest at the start and end of each day.

Parent Liaisons. Most schools have parent liaisons who work with parents and teachers to help your child. They are usually local parents and speak the predominant language of your community. If your school does not have a parent liaison, and you feel you need one, start with the principal.

Social Worker/Psychologist. School social workers help address the social, emotional, and behavioral needs of students. School psychologists provide services to help families navigate educational and community systems to support students in addressing academic, mental health, and behavioral needs.

School Health Aide. The school health aide oversees the school's Health Room or clinic.

If your child turns five years old on or before September 30, he or she may go to kindergarten that school year. Most families can register their children for school at their local elementary school. Contact your local school to make an appointment to register. Registration information is also online.

If your child turns six years old on or before September 30, he or she MUST attend school. Students who do not go to public school must be enrolled in a private school or be home schooled.

Contact your child's teacher and/or your school's reading teacher for help. Think about having your child's vision tested if it hasn't been checked recently by your doctor or another health care provider.

The School-Age Child Care Program (SACC) is a school-based program that cares for elementary school children before and after school. SACC is located in many FCPS elementary schools, but is sponsored by the Fairfax County Office for Children, not FCPS. Available space may be limited, so check on deadlines and wait lists. For more information, call 703-449-8989.

Your school's parent liaison(s) also may know about child care facilities that provide before- and after-school care in your community.

Your elementary school may offer after-school programs for its students as well. These programs, which may be offered up to a few times a week, often are operated by the school PTA. Check your school's website and the school's PTA website for more information.

All elementary students take various assessments and standardized tests in elementary school. Beginning in kindergarten, students may take tests to measure their development in various subjects including reading, mathematics, science, art, and music. Also, students take state-mandated Standards of Learning (SOL) standardized tests in third through sixth grades. Check your school's website for SOLPass, which has practices for SOL concepts. Find more information on testing for elementary students.

Parents need to know about additional testing that is done in elementary school to identify students for advanced academic opportunities. These include:

Testing for Advanced Academic Program Placement

First Grade

Naglieri Nonverbal Abilities Test (NNAT; also called Naglieri)
An IQ (intelligence quotient) test, the NNAT is given in October to all students in grade 1.

Second Grade

Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAt)
An IQ test given in October to all students in grade 2.

Testing for Algebra 1 Readiness

Sixth Grade

Iowa Algebra Aptitude Test (IAAT)

A test to measure readiness for Algebra 1, or higher level math, in grade 7. Given in January to sixth grade students enrolled in Advanced Math 6.

The NNAT and CogAT are used by FCPS as one source of data to determine admission into Level 4 (center-based) Advanced Academic programs. If your student enters FCPS after these tests are given, you may request that the tests be administered to your child for consideration for AAP Level 4 services.

Elementary teachers may use many tools to measure your child's progress in school. They include:

Teacher-made tests and teacher observations.

In-class work.

Classroom participation.

Homework.

Special projects.

Progress reports (Report Cards) are sent home four times a year at the end of each quarter. The first report may be given out and discussed with you at a parent-teacher conference in early November. It is your responsibility to sign and return the progress reports.

Elementary school achievement is reported using a 4-point scale to describe a student's ability to understand and demonstrate concepts and skills. For example, a grade of "4" indicates a high level of achievement; it communicates that a student has a strong understanding of all the concepts and skills taught for that standard during the quarter and can demonstrate understanding independently and with very few errors. These marks are not equivalent to letter grades (A, B, C, D, and F) that are given in middle and high school.

Elementary Progress Marks and Descriptions

4 - Student consistently demonstrates concepts and skills of standard taught this quarter.

3 - Student usually demonstrates concepts and skills of standard taught this quarter.

2 - Student sometimes demonstrates concepts and skills of standard taught this quarter.

1 - Student seldom demonstrates concepts and skills of standard taught this quarter.

Also, a mark of "nt" may be used if a concept or skill was not taught, or "na" when a standard was "not assessed" for a final grade.

For more information about grading of elementary school students, see the Elementary School Grading and Reporting Handbook for Parents.

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST or TJ) is a unique school for students who are interested in a challenging program of mathematics, science, and technology. TJHSST is a Virginia Regional Governor's school enrolling students from Fairfax, Arlington, Loudoun, Prince William, and Fauquier counties and Falls Church City. Students must apply for admission, take an admission test, and submit letters of recommendation. If your student is interested in TJHSST, you must start planning earlymany parents would recommend that you start by the fifth grade.

Admission to TJHSST is highly competitive. Only a small percentage of eligible students can be admitted every year. TJHSST is not the only school where students are challenged and can excel academically in FCPS. Our school division offers advanced academic course work in all of its high schools through either the AP or IB curriculum, or through dual enrollment classes. Encourage your child to look for academic challenges wherever he or she goes to school.

Getting ready for life beyond high school (including college, technical school, vocational careers, or other opportunities) starts at kindergarten, when students begin to build the strong foundation that will help prepare them for the future.

For more information about options after high school, see the "Thinking Beyond High School" section of this handbook.

If college is a future plan, consider opening an educational savings account, if you are able to do so, to begin investing in that future option. Check your college financial aid/savings plan often and update as needed.

The school year usually ends by mid-June and does not begin again until late August. There are many opportunities for summer learning and summer fun for elementary school students. The Washington metropolitan area offers many specialized summer camps and programs. Start planning for summer as early as January each year, as spaces may be limited and often fill up quickly.

FCPS and Fairfax County both offer summer opportunities for students. Some of these programs are free of charge or charge a minimal fee.

Summer Reading: Have your child read over the summer. Your student's elementary school may have a suggested list of books. Plan for regular visits to your local public library to borrow books of interest. The Fairfax County Public Library (FCPL) has a summer reading program to encourage elementary students to read over the summer. During the FCPL Summer Reading Adventure, students note the number of books they read and can earn rewards for reaching goals.

FCPS Summer Programs: FCPS has many summer programs for elementary school students looking for enrichment activities. These programs include:

These programs have limited spaces available. Parents should pay attention to deadlines and plan ahead.

Fairfax County Summer Camp Programs: Fairfax County has many summer camp programs, some in conjunction with FCPS, over the summer. These programs include:

Rec-Pac (Pretty Awesome Children) is a summer program for students in first-sixth grades (entering seventh grade in the fall) run by the Fairfax County Park Authority. Rec-Pac is a six-week program focusing on fun and fitness, crafts, storytelling, and other activities at 40 locations in FCPS. It is a drop-in program where students can go for the entire day or a part of the day. Pre-registration begins in late April. Parents also can register weekly on Mondays during the summer. There is a sliding scale for fees based on income; partial scholarships are available.

FCPA Summer Camps The Fairfax County Parks Authority has a variety of day camps throughout Fairfax County at county recreation centers and parks. This includes: Kiddie Camp (for ages 3-5 years); Summer R.O.C.S. (RECenters Offer Cool Stuff; 8-12 years) and Junior R.O.C.S. (ages 5 years, 3 months to 7 years, 11 months.) There is a fee. Extended care is available at some locations.

TRS Summer Camp (ages 5-12; must have completed kindergarten) offers special events, arts activities, sensory play, games, sports, field trips, and music activities for students with developmental disabilities, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, physical disabilities, emotional disabilities, learning disabilities, and/or attention deficit disorders. Registration begins in March. Fees vary. Scholarships are available.

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Parent Advocacy Handbook: Elementary School (Grades K-6)

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There are many people at your child's elementary school who can work with you and your child to ensure student success. These individuals include administrative, instructional (classroom), and support staff. Make sure you know the names of each of these staff members and how to contact them if necessary. Principal.

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Kindergarten: What Every Family Needs to Know

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Kindergarten: What Every Family Needs to Know

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Kindergarten:  What Every Family Needs to Know

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Supporting Healthy Habits and Routines in Early Learners

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Supporting Healthy Habits and Routines in Early Learners

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Supporting Healthy Habits and Routines in Early Learners

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Math Matters:  Supporting Grade K-2 Children in Math

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Math Matters:  Supporting Grade K-2 Children in Math

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Math Matters:  Supporting Grade K-2 Children in Math

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Moving from Preschool to Kindergarten from the Autism Society

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Moving from Preschool to Kindergarten from the Autism Society

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A Guide for parents of 4- and 5-year old children who receive Preschool Special Education Services

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A Guide for parents of 4- and 5-year old children who receive Preschool Special Education Services

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Pacer Making the Move from Preschool to Kindergarten

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Reading at Home for Children and Families

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Reading at Home for Children and Families

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FRC Back to School Pack: Elementary Edition

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FRC Back to School Pack: Elementary Edition

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For Supporting Readiness Skills - Virginia Kindergarten Readiness Program

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Supporting Readiness Skills The following resources and websites have been carefully vetted and can be useful to support children's school readiness skills. Overall Support ECE Virginia Early Childhood Education (ECE) Resource Hub Resources that help educators foster critical skills and promote equitable opportunities for every child visit the site virginia Early Learning Virginia's Early Learning [...]

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Helping Your Kindergartner Get Ready for 1st Grade

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Helping Your Kindergartner Get Ready for 1st Grade

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Find research-based resources, tips and ideas for families on school readiness.

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Mental Health Skills for Pre-K - Healthy Minds, Thriving Kids

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Mental Health Skills for Pre-K - Healthy Minds, Thriving Kids

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Mental Health Skills for Pre-K - Healthy Minds, Thriving Kids

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Teach your preschooler foundational mental health skills and with a series of imaginative videos and activities.

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