Summer is here! Cue the popsicles, pool days, and maybe a little prep for kindergarten? Before you hit full-on vacation mode, it’s the perfect time to check in on your child’s growth and confidence as they gear up for the next big step. At Celebree School of Ellicott City, we support kindergarten readiness in Ellicott City, MD, with a focus on the whole child. Helping them grow socially, emotionally, and behaviorally so they feel ready to take on the classroom with a smile.
And no, we’re not talking about drilling flashcards or turning your living room into a one-room schoolhouse. Kindergarten readiness is more about life skills, like how to make a friend, how to ask for help, and how to keep your cool when your block tower comes crashing down.
Ready to get started? Here’s what to focus on this summer to help your little one stride into kindergarten with confidence.
- Practice Social Skills Every Day
Friendship-building is a big part of kindergarten success. Kids need to know how to play cooperatively, take turns, and express themselves kindly, even when they’re frustrated.
Try this:
- Encourage playdates, park visits, or team games
- Model respectful communication and empathy
- Talk through social situations: “What could we say if we want a turn?”
At Celebree, our classrooms are full of collaboration and conversation. Social growth doesn’t happen overnight, but summer is a great time to get the ball rolling.
- Strengthen Listening and Following Directions
Kindergarten teachers often give group instructions, sometimes multi-step ones, and children need to listen, process, and act. Sounds simple, but for little learners, it’s a big skill.
Try this:
- Play listening games like “Simon Says” or “Follow the Leader”
- Give simple two- or three-step directions: “Grab your shoes, put on your hat, and meet me by the door”
- Praise your child when they follow through, positive reinforcement goes a long way!
- Help Kids Learn to Manage Big Emotions
From excitement to frustration (and every feeling in between), kindergarteners need to understand their emotions and know what to do with them.
Try this:
- Use emotion words often: “You look proud!” or “It’s okay to feel upset.”
- Teach calming techniques like deep breathing or counting
- Read books that talk about feelings and problem-solving
At Celebree School of Ellicott City, we prioritize emotional regulation in our preschool classrooms because we know how powerful it is for young learners.
- Build Independence, One Button at a Time
Kindergarteners are expected to do a lot on their own, from managing their belongings to opening snack bags. Encouraging independence now will make those first few school days go a whole lot smoother.
Try this:
- Let your child get dressed, pack their bag, and clean up after themselves
- Practice bathroom routines independently
- Celebrate small wins, even if the shoes are on the wrong feet!
- Stick to Simple Routines
Schedules help children feel safe, organized, and in control. Kindergarten has structure—so the more familiar routines feel now, the easier the transition will be.
Try this:
- Create a visual morning and bedtime routine
- Stick to regular meal and sleep times
- Build in “clean up” and “quiet time” as part of your summer day
Your child doesn’t need to have every second planned, but knowing what comes next builds confidence.
- Keep Learning Through Play
Here’s the fun part: most kindergarten skills can be learned through play! Storytelling, sorting, building, and exploring all encourage curiosity and critical thinking.
Try this:
- Read together every day and talk about the story
- Explore nature, cook simple recipes, or make crafts
- Let your child lead the way, ask questions, and follow their interests
Kindergarten readiness means preparing kids to love learning, not just memorize facts.
The Celebree Way: Growing Confident, Capable Kids
At Celebree School of Ellicott City, we believe in nurturing children in every way, academically, socially, and emotionally. Our preschool program lays the foundation for a successful kindergarten year by encouraging independence, curiosity, and kindness in everything we do.
We know that preparing for kindergarten can feel overwhelming, but here’s the truth: you’re already doing more than you think. Every story you read, every time you let your child try something new, every playground disagreement you talk through, it all matters.
So keep doing what you’re doing, and let’s make this summer count.
Because kindergarten? Your child’s going to rock it. And you will too.
