Welcome to Kindergarten! Get Ready for the Big Day

Welcome to Kindergarten at the OCDSB. Preparing your child for their first day of kindergarten is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming. A strong partnership between schools and families is key to a child's success, and we're here to help you get ready for this big day with some helpful tips and resources.

Get Familiar with the School

Help your child feel comfortable and confident by making the school and its routines familiar.

• Visit the playground: Spend time at the school playground so your child can get to know the space. Take photos and talk about school as a fun, positive place to be.
• Practice bus safety: If your child will be taking the bus, walk with them to the bus stop. Remind them to wait on the sidewalk until the bus has fully stopped and the doors open. Teach them to stay seated and use a quiet voice while on the bus. For bus route information, visit the Ottawa Student Transportation (OSTA) website. You can also attend the School Bus and Pedestrian Safety Day this Sunday, August 24th. 

What to Bring to School

The Ottawa-Carleton District School Board has a list of recommended items for students in kindergarten. While this list is completely voluntary, it can be a helpful guide. You can find this list and other tips, including details about packing lunch boxes, on the School Supplies page. Your school will also provide you with more information.

Supporting Your Child's Emotional Well-Being

The first day of kindergarten is an emotional day for both kids and families. It's helpful for little ones to learn how to manage their feelings, especially when they're in new or stressful situations. You can help your child by:

• Modelling coping skills: When you feel stressed, show your child how you handle it by taking a few deep breaths or a quick break. This helps them learn how to manage their own big feelings.
• Encouraging a positive attitude: Talk to your child about all the fun things they'll do, like making new friends and playing with new toys.
• Here are some helpful and easy activities you can try out as a family.

On the First Day

The Ontario Ministry of Education offers a list of tips to help make your child feel confident and comfortable on the first day of school. 

• Asking your child if they would like to bring a special item from home with them, like a toy or stuffed animal.
• Getting to school early so that you can walk around the school and playground areas together.
• Being excited and cheerful as you talk to your child and when you meet their educator team and new classmates.
• Telling your child who will be picking them up at the end of the day, so they know who to expect.
• Reminding your child that there will be many exciting new things to learn and talk about together at the end of the day.

Additional Resources:

• Preparing for Kindergarten: The Ontario Ministry of Education offers a list of tips to help your child prepare for their first day and throughout the school year.
• Parenting in Ottawa - School Readiness: This resource provides information on child development and tips for helping your child be ready for school.
• Let's Talk About Kinder Success Webinar - Recording: Watch this webinar for more tips on preparing your child for a successful start.
• In Conversation with OCDSB Podcast: The Big Day: Listen to this podcast episode for a friendly discussion with experts on getting ready for kindergarten.