Kindergarten Transition in Hamilton: What Parents Need to Know

Hamilton parents gathered recently for an in-depth Kindergarten Parent Information Session. Hosted by C School Principal Jenny Hunt, the evening focused on easing the transition for incoming kindergarteners and their families. From addressing logistical queries to offering practical preparation tips, the session aimed to ensure that all entering students are ready for the school year to begin. Here's a comprehensive overview of the points covered during the meeting:

• Registration and Placement: Kindergarten registration is already underway and the process is entirely online. Screening appointments are set for the week of April 28th, and class placements will be determined by the end of June. It’s important for parents to visit the website for required documents and guidance.
• Busing and School Schedules: The new academic year will feature a modified schedule, with full school days from 8:25 AM to 2:57 PM, except for early release days on the second Wednesday of each month. Both Hamilton and Wenham provide bus services for students living more than half a mile from school.
• Screening and Assessment: Every child entering kindergarten undergoes a screening process to identify potential developmental needs. Principal Hunt emphasized that this assessment is a snapshot in time, and parents should not worry if a rescreen is requested.
• Preparation at Home: Parents were encouraged to work on fostering independence in practical skills like dressing, including managing winter gear, and eating, especially opening lunch and snack items. Familiarizing children with playground equipment and easing their social anxiety by discussing how to make new friends can be beneficial.
• Curriculum Insight: Kindergarten will focus on comprehensive literacy and math instruction, emphasizing phonetics, simple phrases, and number recognition. Play remains central to developing social skills, with structured and unstructured activities integral to the daily routine.
• Specials and Activities: Children will enjoy various special classes weekly, such as Art, Music, Physical Education, and Library, with the addition of STEM activities next year thanks to a full Wednesday schedule.
• Building Social Skills: Parents were advised to help children build social vocabulary and learn emotional expression, positioning them to communicate more effectively with peers and educators.

In conclusion, the session underscored the importance of preparation in reducing first-day jitters for both students and parents, building a supportive entry into the educational journey ahead.

Feel free to direct any further questions or concerns to the school offices or explore online resources available on the school's website for a successful and smooth kindergarten debut.

This is an AI summary generated from this YouTube video. There may be inaccuracies.