Starting kindergarten is a big step. For many children, it is their first experience at school. For parents too, it is often the start of a whole new routine!

Between school supplies, lunches, clothes, emotions, new habits, and family organization, there is a lot to think about.

To help you experience this transition more serenely, here is the list of essentials not to forget before the start of the school year.

1. The essentials requested by the school

First and foremost, make sure you have:

✔ Backpack adapted to your child's size

✔ Lunch box

✔ Water bottle

✔ Indoor sneakers

✔ Spare clothes

✔ Items requested on the school list

A little parenting tip: definitely label all items with your child's name. You will save yourself a lot of lost items!

2. Prepare your child... not just their bag!

Preparation for kindergarten is not just about pencils and notebooks.

A child who knows what to expect arrives much more confident on their first day.

A few ideas:

• visit the school before the start of the year;
• speak positively about school;
• practice morning routines;
• encourage independence (getting dressed, putting shoes away, opening their lunch box);
• answer all their questions.

A great activity to support them

Our downloadable I Succeed in Kindergarten offers several fun activities to develop the skills children will use at school, while familiarizing them with their new reality.

 

3. Emotions: the biggest challenge of the new school year

Even the most enthusiastic children may experience:

• a little anxiety;
• excitement;
• fatigue;
• insecurity;
• difficulty expressing what they feel.

It is completely normal.

The important thing is to offer them opportunities to put words to their emotions.

A tool we love

The Phil and Sophie Box helps children understand their emotions, develop their empathy, and reflect on their behaviors through short, age-appropriate stories.

During a period of great changes like starting kindergarten, these reading times often become precious moments of exchange between the parent and their child.

 

4. A reassuring evening routine

The first few weeks of school require a tremendous amount of energy from children.

A calm and predictable bedtime routine can make all the difference.

A few simple habits:

• limit screens;
• prepare clothes for the next day;
• read a story;
• take a few minutes to chat about the day.

Our favorite little ritual

The Before Bedtime cards offer simple questions that invite children to tell about their day, share their worries, or their little joys.

This special moment often helps children "empty their hearts" before falling asleep and fosters a beautiful connection with their parents.

 

5. Involve your child in small responsibilities

Starting school also means growing up.

Children love feeling like they are contributing to family life.

Responsibilities don't need to be complicated.

For example:

• set the table;
• prepare part of their lunch;
• tidy up their school bag;
• put their shoes in the right place;
• feed the cat.

These small gestures develop their autonomy, their confidence, and their sense of belonging to the family.

To make it motivating

Our Family Chart allows you to visualize everyone's responsibilities and encourage effort through positive reinforcement.

 

6. Organization becomes your best ally

With the arrival of school also comes:

• pedagogical days;
• extracurricular activities;
• appointments;
• homework;
• lunches;
• parent meetings.

Good organization greatly reduces daily stress.

A must-have for Quebec families

For over 20 years, the Family Planner has been helping families keep an overview of their schedule.

Thanks to its spaces for each member of the family, stickers, and lists, the whole family knows where they are going!

 

7. Don't let these precious memories fly away

We always think we will remember everything.

The first drawing.

The first best friend.

The first school photo.

The first show.

The first word written.

Then the years pass... and many of these memories disappear.

A souvenir for life

My School Memories allows you to keep, year after year, the highlights of your child's school journey.

Photos, drawings, anecdotes, certificates, teacher comments... everything is in one place.

Over the years, this notebook becomes a true family treasure that your child will be able to leaf through all their life.

 

In summary: the list of essentials for a successful school start

☑ School supplies

☑ A prepared and reassured child

☑ Tools to tame emotions

☑ A soothing bedtime routine

☑ Small responsibilities adapted to their age

☑ Good family organization

☑ A place to keep all the memories of this big step

Have a great school year!

Kindergarten marks the beginning of a magnificent adventure.

There will be discoveries, challenges, laughter, new friendships, and a huge number of first times.

And even if this step may seem impressive today, it will soon become one of your best family memories.

At Pomango, our mission is precisely to accompany you in these precious moments that pass by much too quickly.

Ariane 💛