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Power Up for Kindergarten! Blog #2
Welcome back to our Power Up for Kindergarten blog series—where each week we bring you easy, meaningful ways to help your child feel confident and excited about their kindergarten adventure!
This week, we’re focusing on something just as important as ABCs and 123s: emotional readiness.
Teach Big Feelings, Little Words
Children entering kindergarten face a whole new world of routines, friendships, and challenges. Helping them name and manage their emotions is a big step toward school success.
Here’s how you can help your child build emotional muscles:
Name It to Tame It
Start labeling emotions when they happen. “You look frustrated—was that puzzle tricky?” This gives kids the vocabulary to express themselves without melting down.
Practice Calming Tools
Teach simple strategies like taking deep breaths, counting to five, or squeezing a stuffed animal. Try a “calm down corner” at home so they get used to having safe spaces for big feelings.
Talk About Friendship
Help your child practice how to say hello, ask to play, and take turns. These small social steps help build confidence for classroom connections.
Read Books About Emotions
Stories are powerful tools! Some of our favorites include The Color Monster by Anna Llenas and When Sophie Gets Angry—Really, Really Angry by Molly Bang. Reading together can spark great conversations.
Don’t Forget Your Kindergarten Kit!
We’re still distributing FREE “Get Ready for Kindergarten” kits packed with fun learning tools, stickers, books, and more. These are perfect for building both school skills and confidence.
To request a kit, email PowerUp@elcnwf!
Suzan Gage Named One of Florida’s “50 Over 50” for Leadership in Early Childhood Advocacy
The Early Learning Coalition of Northwest Florida (ELCNWF) is thrilled to announce that Executive Director Suzan Gage has been named to the News Service of Florida’s “50 Over 50” list—a celebration of Floridians who are making big impacts in their communities and across the state.
Each year, the “50 Over 50” list honors a diverse group of leaders over the age of 50 who are shaping policy, driving change, and making meaningful contributions in fields like education, healthcare, business, government, advocacy, and philanthropy. Suzan’s work in early childhood education and family support has made her a standout not only in Northwest Florida, but across the state.
Gage was honored during a special ceremony on Wednesday, April 16, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Tallahassee.
“Suzan Gage leads with purpose and heart,” said Chase Christianson, CEO of HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospital and Chairman of the Board for ELCNWF. “Her commitment to building stronger families and communities through early learning is nothing short of inspiring. This recognition is well-deserved, and we are proud to have her leading this important work in Northwest Florida and beyond.”
For nearly 20 years, Suzan has been at the helm of ELCNWF, advocating for high-quality early learning experiences—especially in the more rural parts of our region—and championing critical issues like infant and early childhood mental health, developmental screening, and kindergarten readiness.
“At the Early Learning Coalition of Northwest Florida, I’ve seen firsthand how relationships and community connections can transform lives,” said Gage. “Time and time again, I have witnessed the power of relationships to change the impossible into reality.”
Suzan earned her bachelor’s degree from Auburn University in Montgomery and holds advanced degrees in mental health and adult education counseling from Troy University. In addition to her role as Executive Director, she’s also a licensed mental health counselor who works with families to help nurture healthy relationships with their children.
“I’m most inspired by the power of possibility that lives inside each child,” she said. “I wanted to help create the future – and now I am lucky enough to have a vocation that allows me to do so.”
Kindergarten Readiness Tip of the Week: Establish a Consistent Routine
As your child prepares for the exciting transition to kindergarten, one of the most effective strategies you can implement is establishing a consistent daily routine. Predictable schedules provide children with a sense of security and help them understand expectations, which is crucial for adapting to the structured environment of school.
Morning Routine:
- Set a Regular Wake-Up Time: Ensure your child wakes up at the same time each day to regulate their internal clock.
- Personal Hygiene: Encourage habits like brushing teeth and washing face to promote self-care skills.
- Healthy Breakfast: Provide a nutritious meal to fuel their day and enhance concentration.
Evening Routine:
- Consistent Bedtime: Aim for 10–12 hours of sleep each night to support growth and cognitive development.
- Wind-Down Activities: Engage in calming activities like reading a book together to signal bedtime.
- Prepare for the Next Day: Lay out clothes and pack the backpack to reduce morning stress.
Implementing these routines a few weeks before school starts can ease the transition and build your child’s confidence. Remember, consistency is key, but flexibility is also important to accommodate your child’s individual needs.
Stay tuned for next week’s tip on fostering independence in your soon-to-be kindergartener!