Register, Prepare for Kindergarten

posted 4/18/23 -- By now you have probably begun the registration process for your kindergarten-eligible child. If not, this is something you want to do soon. Your timeliness ensures that all screenings will get completed and your child will have a smooth start to the next school year.

Before you register, be sure to verify your child’s eligibility because age cut-offs vary by district. For instance, Lorain City Schools require students to be five by August 1, 2023, but Elyria City Schools have the requirement of five on or before September 30, 2023.

The majority of schools registration is completed online through the district website. Regardless of how it is done, you can expect to need the following documents for kindergarten registration.

• Parent Photo I.D. (license or state ID)
• Child’s Birth Certificate
• Immunization Records
• Custody Papers, If applicable
• 2 Proofs of Residency (lease agreement, mortgage documents, recent utility bills, tax documents, etc.)
• Emergency Contact List (Usually two individuals listed)

Your Head Start teachers and family service assistants are your partners in preparing your child for this next big milestone. Reach out if you need any assistance with the transition to kindergarten.

Some simple transition activities you can do with your child to ease the transition:

• Over the summer visit the school playground.
• Read books about going to kindergarten.
• Set a consistent bedtime routine two weeks before schools starts.
• Before summer, sign your child up for your cities local safety town.

If your child is not age eligible for kindergarten, your family service assistant will work with families on enrolling your child for the 2023-2024 Head Start school year. Thank you for choosing Head Start!