The two most common purposes of having a kindergarten roundup are to share information and collect paperwork, and to meet the new kindergarten students and their parents. Many schools offer a shortened version of a regular school day; children participate in classroom activities, go to recess, and even eat a snack in the lunch room. Other schools extend kindergarten roundup to include several social activities over the summer, such as a play date at the park, a lesson on school bus safety, or a picnic. Occasionally, administrators use kindergarten roundup to conduct informal assessments.
Schools utilize a variety of schedules and formats when planning kindergarten roundup. Some schools have a "parents only" night to communicate with parents and complete necessary paperwork, followed by a fun night with the kids. Other schools host a two-hour meeting for both parents and children that combines administrative tasks with fun activities. Iron Horse Elementary School in Parker, Colorado, hosts a "kindergarten camp out" as a culminating kindergarten roundup activity. All the kindergarten teachers, administrators and incoming kindergarten children and their parents have a sleepover in the school gym.
Meeting teachers and other families before kindergarten starts paves the way for a smooth transition for both parents and children. Families often develop friendships that last for many years. Parents may also organize carpools or daycare arrangements at these initial meetings. The benefit for teachers is that they've opened the door with parents for good communication and a positive relationship. Interacting with students before the first day of school also helps teachers in planning appropriate activities, since classroom dynamics vary from year to year.
When planning the kindergarten roundup, remember that first impressions count. Anxious parents of a young child are hoping for a teacher who is kind, organized, competent, and friendly. Prepare thoughtful notes about what you want to communicate to parents and keep activities fun, but simple. Specialists may use this time for informal assessments, but classroom teachers should focus on connecting and establishing a rapport with families.