Starting first grade is an exciting milestone for children—and a bittersweet one for parents. It marks the end of preschool and the beginning of a more structured academic journey. Your child will now be among older students, face increased educational demands, and begin developing the sense of responsibility that comes with higher levels of education. Up until this point, school has been focused largely on socialization, with the hopeful addition of learning the ABCs and 123s along the way.
Looking back, it’s incredible to see how much your child has already learned. Most children entering first grade can read sight words, write their names legibly, and are stepping into an exciting phase of education. They’re still eager to learn, and lessons are packed with fun, hands-on activities that feed their curiosity. As a parent, you’ll likely notice a shift in your involvement in the classroom. While once welcomed daily, it may now be more limited. Teachers are working hard to prepare your child for second grade—and part of that includes encouraging independence. This transition can be difficult. Not long ago, you were a partner in your child’s education; now, too much parental presence may actually hold them back.
If your child is starting first grade, one of the most noticeable changes will be the workload. A lot of research has gone into crafting grade-appropriate curriculums, and around first grade, things begin to move quickly and become significantly more challenging. A decade ago, first graders weren’t expected to grasp the level of math or reading now required. When you review the curriculum, you’ll be surprised just how much is packed into a single year.
One of the challenges of first grade is the accelerated pace of learning. Last year, they may have learned one letter per week; this year, they’re learning several letters a day and quickly using them to form words and sentences. This leap can be overwhelming at first. Many first graders also come home with at least an hour of homework per night, often including chapter book reading or participation in Accelerated Reader programs that build reading skills fast. As a parent, it’s essential to ensure your child is completing homework and meeting the reading expectations placed on them.
Helping Your First Grader Thrive
If you sense your child is falling behind or struggling with the fast pace, reach out to their teacher right away. Many children behave differently at home than at school, so a parent-teacher conference can provide valuable insights. Ask to see your child’s work and get the teacher’s perspective on where your child stands in comparison to classmates. If your child is behind, advocate for them to be included in an Early Intervention Program (EIP) if available at your school. EIP offers support in specific academic areas based on state and district guidelines and provides more personalized instruction in smaller group settings. Children often feel more confident and successful in these environments. As a parent, it’s your responsibility to be alert to any signs your child may be struggling.
It’s important not to base your expectations solely on your child’s kindergarten performance. Statistics show that younger boys in a class—often those with birthdays near the cutoff—are more likely to fall behind due to maturity differences. Parents must assess their child realistically, considering both age and readiness. If your child is one of the youngest and appears to be struggling, consider the possibility of repeating the grade at the end of the year. Confidence and self-esteem often align with classroom performance. A year’s delay can make a tremendous difference. If a teacher suggests retention, try not to take offense—consider what’s truly in your child’s best interest.
First grade can also be a lot of fun! During this foundational year, it’s a great time to help your child develop study habits that will benefit them throughout their education. Make reading a priority—this is one of the most crucial skills they’ll be developing. Choose books that interest your child to make reading enjoyable. Read aloud together, point to the words as you go, and use positive reinforcement to boost confidence and skills.
Encourage some independence at school while also establishing strong communication with your child’s teacher. Just because your child is in elementary school doesn’t mean they don’t need you—but they also need to begin relying on themselves. Teach them to remember their responsibilities, complete assignments, and fully engage in the learning process. When independence is paired with positive parental support and clear expectations, most children will thrive—making this year not only a success but a truly exciting educational journey.
