Entering kindergarten is a big adjustment, with longer school days, first-time bus rides, meeting new friends and so much more.
Parents and teachers have plenty of suggestions for the little ones tackling all those milestones, but we wanted to talk to some real experts: first graders!
We asked new first graders from some Chicago and North Shore elementary schools for their advice to the incoming kindergarten students. Their answers, not surprisingly, are sweet, inspiring and sure to bring a smile to your face.
Baker Demonstration School, Wilmette
“Pack a yummy lunch. It is super fun to eat in a lunchroom.” — Aara Desai
“You will love the Print Shop. You can make lots of cool things. You just need to clean up all your messes.” — Jonah Cooper
“You will have lots of time to play with new friends, and you will learn lots of new stuff. I hope you have a good time. I had a great time.” — Elan Sharon
“Don’t forget a change of clothes. We got pretty muddy and wet this year.” — Isaac Friebus
Sacred Heart, Chicago
“You don’t need to be shy because it’s just kindergarten.” — Louisa
“Follow the rules. You should listen to your teachers and raise your hand if you have a question.” — Logan
“You have to listen and learn. You have to be respectful.” — Ava
“Be a friend to all and help those that need you.” — Nora
North Shore Country Day, Winnetka
“Keep a smile on your face — even behind a mask.” — Noah Freeman
“Always remember your lunch box so you’re not hungry!” — Sloane Storino
“If you have something to say, you don’t have to hold it in. You can get it out.” — Margaret Rioja-Rasmussen
“Your name is important and you have a voice.” — Sebastian Reber
“Listen to your teachers because they love you.” — Leo Wachter
Names, comments and images printed with parent and school permission. Last names not used where requested.
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Jessica Dlugosz is a digital marketing assistant at Make it Better Media Group. She lives in the Chicago Suburbs and is a first generation college graduate, fluent polish speaker. She enjoys volunteering at Feed my Starving Children, an organization that packages meals for those in underdeveloped countries.
