KINDERGARTEN ORIENTATION

This is a time of big changes for both you and your child. Below is basic information that will help with a smooth transition into kindergarten.

*Remain upbeat and positive – treat school as something of the utmost importance.

*Try to put your fears aside (no matter what your stomach is doing) when your child is around. When you are alone with your adult peer group talk about your fears and seek reassurance.

*Be sure your child is well rested each day. During the first few weeks you may notice that your child may be more tired, cranky, withdrawn or more excited than usual. Give your child a couple of weeks to adjust. If your concerns continue, please contact the teacher to talk about your concerns.

*Show interest by regularly asking about school activities. Ask questions that generate verbal expression rather than ones requiring a “yes” or “no” response. Break the day up into segments. Example: “Tell me about …housekeeping center, story time, art, music, math” or “What did you do in …?”

*Friday folders will consist of notes, newsletters, PTA information and schoolwork. Sometimes notes will require signatures and responses so be sure to check these carefully.

*Check book bags daily. Please empty them daily and return items that are needed to school.

*Read to and with your child nightly.

*Review bus procedures or carpool arrangements with your child. Help them be familiar with their bus color or carpool tag. This information will be provided at the beginning of school.

*Let your child know of any changes in their transportation home and always send a note to your child’s teacher if a change occurs.

*As time passes, continue to encourage your child to become increasingly more independent (i.e. walking to their classroom by themselves, riding the bus to school, passing on notes to you).

*Of course, encourage your child to always do their best and that means they do not always have to be correct. It is OK to make mistakes – it means we are learning. Effort is also extremely important. Praise your child’s efforts and encourage them to do their best.

This year, our daily arrival time has changed to accommodate a 2:45 dismissal on Wednesday afternoons for teachers to be involved in PLC (Professional Learning Communities) meetings. Students may arrive on campus between 8:45 and 9:05. This 20 minute window for arrival is shorter than we have now. Please plan accordingly to have your child here on time. Rushing in at the last minute is unsettling for children.

Wake County Schools has adopted the following Character Traits. We will be learning about and emphasizing these traits throughout your child’s school years:

Responsibility Respect Courage Kindness Integrity

Self-Discipline Perseverance Good Judgment

The Guidance Counselor at Turner Creek is Mr. Tom Green. Please contact him at 363-1391 if you have any questions or concerns so that he may assist you and your child.