Getting Ready for First Grade

My daughter will be starting first grade next week. She did fine moving from preschool to kindergarten. What do I need to do to make her transition from kindergarten to first grade go smoothly? -- Anxious
Answer: Stop being anxious. The more anxious you are, the more anxious your child is likely to be. Teachers are used to making the first days go smoothly for children entering first grade. Nevertheless, you daughter does need your help so that she can develop the right attitude and confidence to start first grade out on the right foot. Here are some things that you can do at home to help you and your child make the transition from the less-structured days of summer to the more-structured school routine:
--Visit the school with your child if she is not familiar with the building.
--Put the school routine in place a few days before school begins by having your child get up and go to bed at the times necessary for school.
--Get all the supplies requested by the school so your child can take them to school on the very first day.
--Set up playdates with other children who will be in her class. It really helps children to see a familiar face in the classroom during the first days back at school.
--Go over transportation arrangements to and from school, and practice bus and walking safety tips.
--Make sure your child understands where she will be before and after school.
--Carefully read all the material that the school has sent to you.
--Schedule a physical exam to make sure your child is healthy.
--Be sure the child's immunizations are up to date.