How much structure does a half-day preschooler need in the summer in order to be ready for full-day kindergarten in the fall?
Parent advice
Full-day kindergarten may depend on whether they need a nap or not. One of my daughters learned how to read by age 4. My neighbor asked me before kindergarten enrollment if I was going to have her placed in first grade — her older son, who was in second grade at the time, was embarrassed that she read better than he did. But she still needed a nap every afternoon and didn’t get up until 8 a.m.
By preschool age I enrolled my children in preschool programs according to their needs — meeting new friends, learning a skill, such as swimming, or a chance to be without their other siblings. One daughter could amuse herself, another wanted to be occupied, another wanted to be in charge. How (much structure is required for kindergarten) depends on the child.
— Barb Matarrese
The most important thing is building up her stamina for a full day. She will not be alone in having to do that.
Depending on when her half-day begins, she will have to practice getting up earlier than she is used to, which may mean going to bed earlier. I would consider beginning the new routine about a month before school begins — you know your child; perhaps only a few weeks will be enough.
— Marie Grass Amenta
If your preschooler has been in a preschool class, ask the teacher what she suggests. I think it is helpful to the child to spend part of the day with a parent reading stories, doing art projects and working on number skills.
You can space these activities out to various days. Anything you can do to help the child learn to socialize can be an asset. Have other children over to play.
— Jean Rubinson
Expert advice
Start by asking your child’s school how they transition children into full-day kindergarten, suggests Paula Glenn, a speech-language therapist for elementary schools in the Denver area.
“Most kindergarten programs transition students in the first few months of full-day kindergarten from a preschool-like approach; some continue to include a short rest/naptime for the first few months,” she said. “You may be surprised at what you find out.”
During the summer, review any suggestions and concerns his or her preschool teacher mentioned in the past year, Glenn said.
Then work to address those concerns and support your child’s development based on those recommendations.
“How much structure a child needs in the summer depends on the child,” Glenn said. “However, no matter the child’s level, always spend at least 20 minutes daily reading to your child and discussing the vocabulary in the story; there is nothing more important for kindergarten readiness.”
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