School Readiness Tips for Baltimore City Scholars

Whether your child is on the cusp of their first day of school or years away from that milestone, it’s never too early to begin preparing. We’ve compiled a list of school readiness tips from Baltimore City educators as part of our resources for Baltimore families with children. Access video versions of these school readiness tips in our School Readiness Playlist on YouTube.

Molly Snyderman, Commodore John Rodgers Elementary/Middle School:

• Start discussions about going to school early. Use a book (or two) to support this conversation, such as Giant-Sized Butterflies on My First Day of School by Justin Roberts
• Practice completing self-care tasks independently and confidently, such as putting on their clothes, opening lunch packaging, and zipping up their jackets.
• Read together every day and limit screen time over the summer (yes, it’s hard!).

LaToya Allen, Graceland Park-O’Donnell Heights Elementary/Middle School:

• Foster independence at home, including using the bathroom.
• Ensure kids get enough sleep each night—up to 11-13 hours per night, depending on their age.
• Consistent attendance is crucial to success in kindergarten, as it lays the foundation for the rest of their academic career.

Maggie Murphy and Joane Espinoza, Holabird Judy Center:

• Expose young kids to a range of experiences to nurture brain development. Talk to them about what you’re seeing and doing each day.
• Establish structures at home to get them ready for their school schedule. Kids feel safe and thrive through the predictability of routines.
• Model emotional regulation. Show that it’s OK to have big feelings and introduce some ways to calm yourself down.
• Learn more about Judy Centers here.

Nicole Wood and Sheila Ebert, Moravia Park Judy Center:

• Create a daily reading (and singing) routine with your child to encourage language development, and incorporate drawing and coloring to boost fine motor skills.
• Continue consistent bedtime routines, especially throughout the summer.
• Nurture play. Get outside, run and jump, and check out a local play group.

Shelby Lawrence, Mount Royal Elementary/Middle School:

• Teach kids to advocate for themselves at home and school. They should verbalize when they need help or are not feeling well.
• Cultivate a love of reading by modeling it. Read throughout your day (including signs, menus, news, and books) and show them how useful reading is every day.
• Make sure they know their real name as well as their parents’ names (and phone numbers, too). They should recognize the sight of their own name.

Tips from the Baltimore City Public School System:

• Practice saying goodbye with a smile.
• Visit the school so your child is familiar with the building and grounds.
• Make sure you know the school’s bell schedule, uniform policy, and have medical paperwork (immunization records, physical exam, and lead certificate) on file.
• Read more tips in their Pre-K and Kindergarten Enrollment Guide aimed at families.