🎒 Getting Ready for 1st Grade · Lesson 7 of 7
The summer plan
15 minutes a day, what to buy, the first week, and who to call.
15 minutes a day
| Mon | Read aloud + rhyme games |
|---|---|
| Tue | Count and compare real things |
| Wed | Drawing, cutting, playdough |
| Thu | Library visit + sight words |
| Fri | Board game night |
| Weekend | Outdoor play and summer reading |
Summer reading
Most US public libraries have a free summer reading program with small prizes. Sign up — it keeps kids reading and avoids the “summer slide”.
School supplies
Wait for the school’s supply list — teachers often want specific folders, crayons and headphones. Label everything. Let your child choose the backpack and lunchbox; it builds excitement.
The first week
- Go to the school open house or “meet the teacher” day
- Read every paper that comes home — many forms are due the first week
- Expect tiredness and meltdowns after school: early bedtime, a snack and downtime help
- Join the class communication app or email list
Who to contact
The teacher first, by email or note. For learning or attention concerns, ask about an evaluation; public schools must evaluate kids who may need special education (IDEA). The school counselor and nurse are there to help too.
✏️ Practice: your turn
- Write your own 15-minute weekly plan
- Sign up for the library summer reading program
- Mark the open house date on the calendar
- Prepare a calm after-school snack-and-rest routine
🧠 Quick quiz
Answer all 4 questions correctly to mark this lesson as done.
0 of 4 correct
All lessons in Getting Ready for 1st Grade
- 🌱 1. What “readiness” really meansFeelings, friends, independence and attention — and what isn’t expected
- 🔤 2. Sounds and lettersRhymes, first sounds, syllables and letters — the fun way
- 🔢 3. Numbers and first mathCounting, quantities, more and less, shapes and patterns
- ✏️ 4. Fine motor skills and pencil gripScissors, lines, drawing and writing their name
- 🧦 5. Independence and routinesBackpack, bathroom, lunchbox, sleep and mornings
- 💛 6. The emotional sideTalking about the change, saying goodbye, friends and confidence
- ☀️ 7. The summer plan15 minutes a day, what to buy, the first week, and who to call