09/01/2026
Starting kindergarten is a big milestone for children and their families. 💛 It can be exciting, but it can also bring questions and uncertainty, especially when you’re navigating the school system for the first time.
You don’t have to wait for a problem to start advocating for your child.
Here are a few ways to help create a strong foundation for an inclusive kindergarten experience:
🌟 Start with a relationship. Connect with your child’s teacher and share what you know about their strengths, interests, communication, needs and what helps them feel safe and successful.
🏫 Connect with the school. If you haven’t met with the Principal yet, reach out. Building relationships early can make it easier to work together when questions or challenges arise.
📸 Make school familiar. Visit the school, explore important spaces and take pictures. A simple social story can help make a new environment feel more predictable and comfortable.
💬 Ask questions and advocate. Write down your questions, bring someone with you if helpful, take notes and ask for clarification. Try questions like: “What can we try to help my child be successful?”
And most importantly, trust what you know about your child. You don’t need to have all the answers to be a strong advocate. Asking questions, sharing what you know and starting the conversation is advocacy.
📚 Inclusion BC has resources to help families navigate inclusive education and advocate for meaningful inclusion at school. Explore our inclusive education resources as you get ready for this important transition. (link to our resources website: https://inclusionbc.org/resources/inclusive-education/)