Getting Ready for Kindergarten

There are simple actions that your family can take to stay healthy throughout the school year. 

Encourage your child to wash their hands: 

• After they use the washroom
• Before eating
• Anytime their hands look dirty
• After touching animals
• After sneezing and eating

If you child is not well, they should stay home.

Be sure to have a plan in place to care for sick children at home.

For more information, visit our Infectious Diseases page.

• Ensuring your child has foods they will eat and enjoy can be tricky. Here are some tips to help you pack a lunch your child will love:
  • Involve your child in making their lunch, make it fun!
  • Pack a variety of different foods, including vegetables, fruit, whole grains and protein rich foods
  • Use child friendly containers that are easy to open
  • Use insulated lunch bags and ice packs to keep your child’s food cold, and a thermos to keep your child’s food warm
• Want to learn more about packing your child’s lunch? We have a helpful video series you can check out.

• What are the requirements for my child’s booster and car seats?
  • If your child is under 40 lbs (18 kg) they need a car seat
  • If your child is under 4 foot 9 inches OR under 80 pounds OR under 8 years old they need a booster seat
• Why should I walk or bike with my child to school?
  • Walking or biking to school helps your child use their additional energy so they can focus in class.
  • Walking or biking to school helps your child be active, supporting their mental and physical wellbeing
  • Walking or biking to school relieves traffic congestion around the school, making it a safer place for the children.
• Where should I go to find out more about keeping my child safe as they travel to school?
  • You can find out more about keeping your child safe while travelling to school through Active and Safe Routes to School. 

• Our Oral Health Team traditionally visits elementary schools in our region. Unless you state otherwise, your child in JK, SK and Grade 2 will receive free dental screening by a Registered Dental Hygienist.
•  If you have a concern about your child’s teeth, please call us to discuss options.
• Access more information on dental services for children and youth aged 0-17.

• Eye problems can go unnoticed because kids often don't know they have trouble seeing, so they don't complain to parents about their eyesight
• Eye examinations are covered once a year by provincial health insurance for people under 20. Call your local optometrist.
• To find a participating optometrist and to learn more go to Eye See Eye Learn.