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Getting Ready for Kindergarten

Overview

HCPSS kindergarten is a full-day program. Registration for the 2024-2025 school year begins March 4, 2024. Children must be 5 years old by September 1, 2024, in order to enroll in kindergarten. Every eligible child must be enrolled in a kindergarten program this fall or have an approved waiver form.

← Start the enrollment process

Helping Your Child Get Ready for Kindergarten

Kindergarten teachers are prepared for children to enter school with varying abilities, strengths and needs. Each child is taught at their appropriate level through differentiated instruction. Learn more what your child will learn in kindergarten.

Prior to kindergarten there are many things parents can do to support their child’s transition to school. View the 2024 Road to Kindergarten Workshop presentation for information about kindergarten readiness, the kindergarten program, and registering your child for school. From making sure appropriate documentation is gathered, to playing with, reading with and listening to their child, the year before kindergarten is a great opportunity to develop school readiness!

Kindergarten class being instructed by teacher.

All Year

  • Play, read, listen, and talk with your child. Ask questions, explore together.
  • Provide opportunities for your child to play with others.
  • Follow HCPSS on Twitter/X and/or Instagram.

Winter (Dec/Jan/Feb)

  • Determine kindergarten eligibility. Children must be five years of age on or before September 1 to enter kindergarten.
  • Use our School Locator to locate the school that serves your neighborhood.
  • Prior to kindergarten there are many things parents can do to support their child’s transition to school. View the 2024 Road to Kindergarten Workshop presentation for information about kindergarten readiness, the kindergarten program, and registering your child for school.
  • Begin gathering required documents for kindergarten registration.
  • Visit your local Howard County Library System branch for book recommendations, classes and other learning opportunities to support kindergarten readiness with your child.
  • Develop consistent morning and evening routines that help children be most successful.

Spring (March/April/May)

Summer (June/July/August)

Fall (Sept/Oct/Nov)

  • Attend relevant parent workshops offered by your child’s new school.
  • If your child is five years old by September 1st, and you have not registered your child, register them for kindergarten.
  • If your child is not five years old by September 1st, they may be eligible for Pre-K. Review the qualifications.
  • Continue to maintain consistent routines.
  • Start and maintain good attendance habits. Children should attend school daily and on time. If your child is absent, please make sure to send a note to the school. For further guidance, please see the HCPSS attendance policy.

Contact Us:

For questions about kindergarten registration, please contact your child’s school. For any additional questions, contact the Office of Early Childhood Programs, 410-313-5693.