Opinion: What I Wish Every Parent Knew Before the First Day of Kindergarten

By Samantha Hobson

I have taught multiple grade levels in the Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25, and I can confidently say there is something truly special about kindergarten. I have watched fourth graders learn to multiply fractions and second graders learn to tell time, but the growth that happens in kindergarten is different. It is foundational. It is transformative. It is tender.

Maybe I feel it even more deeply now because I am a mom to little ones myself. I believe I understand the swirl of emotions that come with that first day. Your child may walk in excited, scared, nervous, proud, or clinging tightly to you with their small hand, and you may feel all of that too. They are beginning to enter the world without you. It is a wave of emotions for everyone. Soak it all in. You’ve got this—and so do they! 

What I wish parents knew is this: your child transforms in the most beautiful ways during their time at school. You are sending them to teachers who have prepared for their sweet faces to walk through the door, teachers who are excited to meet them, learn their personalities, guide them through new experiences, and turn a classroom into a family. 

Kindergarteners form friendships that may last through elementary school or even become lifelong. They build meaningful relationships with educators, secretaries, custodians, and other trusted adults who become part of their support system. In school, they learn to step outside their comfort zone—to try, to fail, to try over and over again. That is where the magic happens!

I can speak for myself and so many passionate educators in our school district whom I have had the privilege to work alongside: teaching is more than a job—it is a calling. We truly love these children. My goal is always to help each learner reach their fullest potential, whether that means growing behaviorally, building confidence, strengthening friendships, or advancing in reading and academic skills. 

Above all, I hope every student I have ever taught feels the care, support, and belief I have in them, because their success matters deeply to me.

When it comes to readiness, I want families to trust their instincts. You know your child. During kindergarten registration, you are welcome to ask teachers any questions you may have. We are here to help you think through readiness and walk alongside you in that decision. If you have worries or uncertainties, please share them—we will do our best to help you navigate the process. 

Deep down, you know if your child is ready for this next step—and readiness is not defined by knowing all their letters, how to write their name, how to hold a pencil perfectly, or how to read before school starts. Those are skills we teach. 

Kindergarten is built for children at different starting points. Teachers meet students where they are and guide them forward. What matters most is curiosity, growing independence, and a willingness to try. If your child is eager to learn and ready to grow, they are ready for kindergarten.

For families who are considering kindergarten, I encourage you to take the next step and enroll. Kindergarten registration opens March 20, and we would love to welcome your child into our classrooms. PCSD 25 classrooms are built on community, belonging, and growth. We are ready to support your family and partner with you in this incredible journey. 

Kindergarten is more than the start of school. It is the start of belonging.

Read this article in the Idaho State Journal

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Samantha Hobson is a parent and PCSD 25 educator. She teaches Kindergarten at Edahow Elementary School. She has worked in the district for eight years, including six years in the classroom. Samantha is passionate about early childhood education and creating a classroom where young learners feel safe, confident, and excited to learn.