08/24/2026
Whether your child is barely 2 or nearly 6, now is a great time to start easing back into school routines. Yes, early exposure to letters, numbers, colors, and shapes is helpful — and practicing skills like making snips with scissors, putting on (and zipping) jackets, and caring for themselves in the restroom builds confidence.
But there are other important ways to prepare for a great start:
🌟 Building Independence
Practicing waiting — At school, children are one of many. Sometimes they’ll wait a moment for help opening a glue stick or getting assistance in the restroom.
Managing belongings — Encourage them to carry their backpack, put on and zip their jacket, throw away their trash, open napkins/snacks, wash and dry hands, and respond when spoken to.
🌟 Talking About School
Begin talking with your child about how school is a place to play, learn, and have fun — and that you won’t be there with them. You’ll be doing something much less exciting, and you want them to have the best time. It’s okay to miss them, and it’s okay for them to miss you, too.
🌟 Naming Feelings
Children may feel excited, nervous, unsure, happy, mad, or sad. All feelings are okay. At school, we practice using words, taking deep breaths, and responding safely — even when something is hard, like leaving the playground when it’s time for another class to come out.
🌟 Speaking Up
Help your child practice using their words to express wants, needs, and feelings, and to ask for help when they need it.
School is so much fun, and it’s normal to feel a little unsure at the start of a new year — even for returning AGSP students who may have a new room, new teacher, and new friends.
🌟 Upcoming Events
Talk positively about school and take advantage of our special back‑to‑school events:
Blessing of the Backpacks & Preschool Open House — August 30
Meet & Greet Events — September 2 or 3 (sign-ups to be posted soon)
First Day Orientations — September 8 & 9 (more details soon!)
If you have any questions about preparing your child for the new school year, please reach out. We’re in this together!
