Am I Ready for Kindergarten?

The "Balanced School Day" Eating Guide

Our school follows a Balanced Day schedule with two 40-minute nutrition breaks instead of one long lunch.

• Two-Part Lunch Packing: pack two separate snacks/meals. A "Break 1" and "Break 2" label helps students manage their food so they don't eat everything at once.

• The "Can I Open It?" Test: "easy-open" containers. If a child can’t open their own container, it can lead to frustration and loss of focus.

• Nut-Free Policy: WRDSB schools are nut-aware zones to keep all students safe.

Clothing & Gear Checklist

Kindergarteners learn through play, which is often messy!

• The "Indoor/Outdoor" Rule: Every student needs a pair of indoor running shoes (non-marking soles) that stay at school. These are essential for safety and gym time.

• "Just in Case" Bag: A Ziploc bag with a full change of clothes (socks, underwear, pants, shirt) to be kept in their cubby for accidents or messy play.

• No Laces (Unless Mastery): Velcro or slip-on shoes to foster independence and reduce transition times.

• Dress for the Weather: We go outside every day. Please make sure to layer based on the season.

Backpack Essentials

• The "Large Enough" Rule: A backpack should be large enough to hold a standard-sized lunch bag, a library book, and the "Just in Case" clothing bag.

• Label Everything: Please label all clothing and belongings to make sure items remain with your child (e.g., Mabel’s Labels). Items without labels in a room full of students often end up in the Lost and Found.

Pro-Tip for Parents: Practice "The Coat Flip" at home! It’s a quick, visual way for kindergarteners to put on their own jackets independently.