Kindergarten Readiness in Forest Hill: What to Focus On This Summer

Ah, summer. Popsicles, splash pads, fireflies, and… kindergarten prep? Yep, it might not be top of mind while you’re packing for the beach, but summer is actually the perfect time to help your child get ready for the big leap into kindergarten. At Celebree School of Forest Hill, we support kindergarten readiness in Forest Hill, MD, by making learning feel natural, fun, and full of purpose. And you can totally do the same at home!

Kindergarten isn’t just about writing your name or counting to 20. It’s about knowing how to listen, follow directions, get along with others, and manage big feelings in a brand-new setting. The good news? You don’t need to cram in flashcards or turn your kitchen into a classroom. A little intention goes a long way.

So, what should you focus on this summer? We’ve got you covered.

1. Strengthen Social Superpowers

Kindergarten = friends, group work, sharing, and yes, the occasional disagreement over who had the blue crayon first. Social skills help kids navigate the classroom confidently and kindly.

Try this:

• Schedule regular playdates or trips to the park
• Model polite conversation and taking turns
• Praise your child when they express themselves respectfully (“I didn’t like that” is a win!)

At Celebree, we see social growth every day. Learning to work with peers is just as important as learning the alphabet.

2. Practice Listening (Even When It’s Hard)

We know “listening ears” can be hit or miss depending on the day (and snack availability). But kindergarten teachers rely on kids’ ability to follow directions, often in a group setting.

Try this:

• Play games like “Simon Says” or “Red Light, Green Light”
• Give simple two-step directions: “Pick up your shoes, then grab your book”
• Read aloud together, pausing to ask questions or make predictions

These small activities build focus and the ability to process spoken instructions.

3. Encourage Emotional Smarts

Big feelings happen, especially in new environments. Helping your child recognize, name, and regulate emotions is a major part of kindergarten readiness.

Try this:

• Use phrases like, “It looks like you’re feeling frustrated. What can we do to help?”
• Introduce a calm-down space or simple coping strategies like deep breaths or counting to five
• Read books that explore emotions and talk about what characters feel and why

At Celebree School of Forest Hill, we coach kids through these moments with patience and care, because emotions are part of the learning journey too.

4. Build Independence One Step at a Time

Kindergarteners are expected to handle small tasks on their own, like hanging up backpacks, using the restroom, opening lunch items. Practicing these now can give your child a big boost of confidence later.

Try this:

• Let them get dressed (yes, even if the outfit is… creative)
• Encourage packing their own snack or putting toys away
• Practice zipping jackets, fastening shoes, and washing hands thoroughly

Remember, it’s about progress not perfection.

5. Establish Predictable Routines

Kids thrive on routine. It creates a sense of stability and teaches time management skills (even if they don’t realize it yet!).

Try this:

• Stick to consistent wake-up and bedtimes
• Create a simple daily rhythm, like storytime after lunch or clean-up before dinner
• Use a visual chart for morning and bedtime routines. They’re fun and super helpful

Getting into the swing of things this summer means fewer bumps when school starts.

6. Celebrate Curiosity and Play

Play is powerful. It builds imagination, problem-solving skills, and even early academic concepts. A child who loves to explore is more likely to love learning.

Try this:

• Turn everyday activities into learning moments (measuring ingredients = math!)
• Visit local libraries, nature centers, or museums
• Let your child ask questions and encourage them to find the answers

At Celebree, our classrooms are designed to spark curiosity every single day.

Let’s Make This Summer Count

Kindergarten readiness doesn’t have to mean cramming. It’s about helping your child feel prepared, capable, and excited for what’s ahead. Whether you’re building a block tower or navigating a meltdown over mismatched socks, it all adds up.

And if you need a partner in the process, Celebree School of Forest Hill is here to help. Our preschool programs nurture the whole child—socially, emotionally, and academically—so that your little one walks into kindergarten not just ready, but thrilled to begin.

Here’s to a summer of sunshine, growth, and confidence-building. Kindergarten, here we come!