Getting Your Child Ready for School

Establish a routine of daily living. Every child should have approximately ten to eleven hours of rest daily, depending upon his age. Before coming to school, be sure your child:

• Has washed himself
• Has brushed his teeth
• Has combed his hair
• Has been to the toilet
• Has dressed properly
• Has eaten breakfast

Teach good habits, including:

• Wash hands before eating
• Go to Toilet when necessary
• Wash hands after using toilet
• Use tissue when needed – provide your child with tissues. Teach him to cover his mouth when coughing or sneezing
• Practice good table manners – talk when the mouth is empty, eat quietly and at least take a taste of everything on his plate
• Talk quietly to your neighbors on either side of you

Plan your child’s clothing carefully:

• Dress him appropriately for the weather conditions
• Teach little children to dress and undress themselves
• Mark all caps, gloves, boots, rainwear, jackets and sweaters with the child’s name. Wash these items often, especially hats, caps and other items passed among children
• Encourage the child to remove boots and rainwear at school without being told by teacher

Check your child’s book bags and clothing for school letters, school work and return requested information papers as soon as possible.