Just Another Manic Mommy

Dear Manic Mommy: I want to present my kindergartner in the best possible light to his new teacher, yet on the other hand, he has some problems getting along with others, listening to directions and doing what he is told. Should I let the teacher find out for herself, or should I give her a preview?

Manic Mommy: I would go with the wait-and-see approach on this one. I don't think a kindergarten teacher needs to have a child "presented" to her. My guess is she's probably been teaching for a little while now and has dealt with all types of kids. And it sounds to me like your son is quite normal, acting like most kids his age. In fact, you've just described two of my three kids, and only one of them is kindergarten-aged!

If there's a kindergarten orientation, then you and your son should definitely go to meet the teacher. While you're there, if you feel the opportunity presents itself, discuss some of your concerns with the teacher but don't go overboard (and don't discuss these things in front of your child!), because what might seem like a major problem to you may just be normal kindergarten behavior to the teacher.

As for the first day of school, the best way to prepare your child is to do the obvious: Have his hair and teeth brushed and his clothes cleaned. Tell him to smile at the other kids, to be nice and to say "please" and "thank you."

Most likely you'll have an opportunity to discuss any concerns with the teacher when school has been in session a few weeks, and certainly she'll contact you if she needs to, but I'm thinking your son is going to be just fine!

In the meantime, to get yourself and your son prepped for kindergarten, hit the library, as there are some great books on the subject for kids starting the big K! A favorite silly one our family loves is We Share Everything by Robert N. Munsch and Michael Martchenko. You also might want to reread (because I know you had to have heard of it before!) All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten by Robert Fulghum. It's a great little lesson for all of us!