Ready for First Grade

Entering first grade is one of the most significant stages in the life of every child – and their parents too. Alongside purchasing the school bag, notebooks, and pencil case, it is worth pausing for a moment and remembering that preparation for school does not end with new equipment. Self-confidence, independence, communication, health, and proper lifestyle habits are the cornerstones that will allow children to start the year with a sense of capability and success. Clalit Central District experts have gathered the most important recommendations just before the school year begins.

A sense of security before grades

Claudine Khatib, parent consultant, Clalit Central District: "The transition from kindergarten to school brings many changes: a new framework, a different daily routine, academic and social demands, and the expectation of independence. Therefore, the most important role of parents is to give the child a sense of security. Already during the vacation, it is recommended to prepare the child for the change: visit the school together, buy the equipment as a shared experience, and talk about what to expect. It is important to give space to both excitement and concerns and to convey a clear message – it is okay to be afraid, and we will get through this together."

At the same time, it is worth encouraging daily independence: dressing alone, packing the bag, taking care of equipment, and participating in morning preparations. Every small success strengthens the sense of capability. Even after school starts, it is worth showing interest in what the child is going through using open-ended questions like "Who did you play with?" or "What was the most interesting thing today?", and avoiding comparisons to other children. Every child has their own pace of adaptation, and the most important measure at the beginning of the journey is not grades – but the feeling that they belong, are safe, and believe in themselves.

Not every bag fits every child

Claudia Shamir, director of developmental physiotherapy, Clalit Central District: "One of the most exciting purchases before first grade is the school bag, but beyond the design, it is important to choose a bag that will protect back health. The recommendation is to choose a bag as light as possible, suitable for the child's body measurements, with a padded back, wide and padded straps, and a chest strap for stabilization. In most cases, it is better to choose a high-quality backpack over a trolley."

The way of use is no less important than the choice itself. The weight of the full bag should not exceed about 10% – 15% of the child's body weight. It is recommended to go over the schedule with the children every evening and pack only the necessary equipment, place heavy books close to the back, carry the bag on both shoulders, and tighten the straps so it is close to the back. These simple habits reduce unnecessary load and help maintain correct posture from the first day.

Independence is more important than worksheets

Tamar Shulman Noah, head of child development in occupational therapy, Clalit Central District: "Before entering first grade, it is worth reducing the pressure around academic preparation and investing specifically in developing independence. There is no need to flood the child with worksheets or practice writing letters over and over. It is much more important to strengthen the sense of capability and encourage them to deal with simple tasks on their own. It is worth allowing the child to try to understand what is required of them before rushing to explain, encouraging them to think and draw conclusions, and giving them confidence in their ability to find solutions."

Daily organization is also an inseparable part of the preparation: opening the lunch box, using the pencil case, organizing the bag, tying shoes, and getting ready in the morning without depending on an adult. At home, it is recommended to prepare an organized and quiet workspace, with a table and chair suitable for the child's height, and to gradually start building a sleep and activity routine that will ease the transition to school.

A small sandwich, a big impact

Inbal Katz Friedlander, district dietitian, Clalit Central District: "A good morning meal is not only satisfying, but helps with concentration, learning, and development. The recommended base is a sandwich made of whole-wheat bread, pita, or a whole-wheat roll, which contain more dietary fiber than regular flour products, which are important for the proper functioning of the digestive system. The recommended sandwich filling combines a source of protein, such as cheese, egg, tuna, hummus, or tahini, alongside fresh vegetables in a variety of colors."

It is worth diversifying the types of filling throughout the week and adapting them to the child's preferences. Not every child likes sandwiches, and you can send them with yogurt with granola, a tortilla with an omelet, crackers with cheese, homemade pancakes, or savory muffins, alongside vegetables and fruits. It is recommended to pack the vegetables and fruits separately to keep them fresh, and be sure to include a water bottle. It is recommended to involve the children in planning the weekly meals. Ultimately, healthy eating habits are not built in one day. When children are partners in choosing and preparing, the chances increase that they will enjoy the food – and bring home an empty lunch box.

Health also goes to first grade

Sarit Sharabi Shalom, coordinator of preventive medicine Tipat Halav and children, Clalit Central District: "Preparations for first grade do not end with purchasing equipment, and towards the beginning of the school year, it is recommended to ensure that the child has undergone a developmental check, completed routine vaccinations, and performed the required screening tests. Towards entering school, it is recommended to ensure that the child has undergone the developmental check at age 5–6, which includes an assessment of motor skills, cognitive development, emotional and social maturity, and growth monitoring. If necessary, one can be referred for further investigation or early treatment."

It is also important to complete all routine vaccinations according to age and perform screening tests, including a vision test, to identify difficulties that might affect learning. At the same time, it is worth continuing to encourage healthy lifestyle habits: adherence to physical activity, drinking water, sufficient sleep, and a balanced diet. Later in the year, it is also recommended to get vaccinated against the flu, especially with the return to a classroom setting where many children stay together for long hours.

Talk a lot, arouse curiosity

Lilach Mathias, developmental speech therapist, Child Development Rishonim, Rishon LeZion, Clalit Central District: "One of the most important tools for success in first grade is good communication – long before learning to read and write. Parents can strengthen their children through daily conversations, real listening, and giving space for questions. Instead of settling for "Was it fun?", it is better to ask focused questions like "Who did you play with?", "What did you learn?" or "What made you laugh the most today?". Such questions encourage the child to expand, explain, and share."

Shared reading is also very important. It is recommended to read a book every day, talk about the characters and the plot, ask what they think will happen next, and enrich the language in a natural and enjoyable way. You can combine word games, rhymes, and sounds during trips or walks, but there is no need to teach the child to read in advance. They will learn the craft of reading at school. At home, it is more important to arouse curiosity, a love for learning, and confidence in the ability to deal with new challenges.