Copy
View this email in your browser
Kindergarten Transition

It often happens sooner than we are ready

Few things can feel more daunting than the transition from nest to kindergarten. Whether your child has been attending preschool, childcare, or been exclusively at home for the first five to six years, the transition seems to happen sooner than we are ready for and often feels more like a cutting of the cord than gentle transition. It's a life-changing transition, not only for children but for families who are sending their first OR last child to school. It is bittersweet to see the independence and the new dependance on a new adult (teacher) of your child. To help guide you through the transition, we’ve compiled a collection of resources to guide you on the route to kindergarten:

Did you know?
In South Dakota, children who are five on or before September 1st can start kindergarten the Fall of that year. Should you wait to send your child or send them at five? Consider the pros and cons with this article by Patrick Coleman from Fatherly.com: click HERE.

Kindergarten Screening 
Conducted by developmental specialists, screenings are an informal meet and greet where you will learn more about the school and your child will participate in a series of informal assessments to gauge their development and growth, much like their pediatrician has been doing throughout their life. Click HERE for a video from Keloland news about the topic.

Before and After-School Care
Before and after school care or out of school childcare is often the bridge between home and school since they fill the hours when school has not yet started or ended, yet parents are still working.  Inquire with your child’s school for community based programming and area options that offer transportation. Click HERE to learn more.

SFEC Resources for You

Kindergarten Readiness Resources




Find our printable card sets in six languages, and learn more about the skill categories.
Check it out>>

Episode 07: Kindergarten Transition


Listen to early education experts and a parent as they dive into the tricky topic of Kindergarten Transition.
Check it out>>
Kindergarten teachers Paige Haukaas and Melissa Crouch welcome families and new students to South Canyon Elementary in Rapid City, SD. Tour the school and learn what to expect in kindergarten.

"Inquire with your child’s school regarding OST programs that offer a summer program for children entering kindergarten in the fall.  This gives parents and children an introduction to the routines of school.  Parents gain a comfort for the expectations of backpacks, take-home folders, drop off and pick up procedures.  Children gain independence and work through any separation anxiety they may have and meet children that will be attending kindergarten with them.  Children also meet adults that work in the school and will have familiar faces to greet on the first day of school in the fall."

Billy Jo Bakeburg

Director of Operations, South Dakota Afterschool Network
SD SFEC Advisory Committee Member

Upcoming Learning Opportunities

Multiple Dates

Using a Trauma Lens

Regional trainings across South Dakota to learn how to use a trauma lens to better support students.
Learn More

Starts March 21

Family and Community Engagement Graduate Course

This online course is designed for teachers and educators to expand their knowledge on Family Engagement.
Learn More

Multiple Dates

Early Literacy Trainings

Learn strategies to support young children’s school readiness in home and childcare environments.
Learn More

May 9

Power Hour - Learning Together Virtual Event

An interactive virtual event for early childhood professionals. Monday May 9, from 6:30 MT / 7:30 CT.
Learn More
Copyright © 2022 South Dakota Statewide Family Engagement Center, All rights reserved.


Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.

Email Marketing Powered by Mailchimp