Starting kindergarten can be scary. Kids have to learn all kinds of new things while meeting friends and becoming more independent — and it can be a lot to put on such a little plate.
With that in mind, Chicago educator Dwayne Reed is trying to help ease the transition with music. His little ditty, "Welcome to Kindergarten," is fast becoming a hit on social media thanks to an adorable video he recently shared.
Everyone is welcome in kindergarten.
Reed, 31, is dean of students at a Chicago elementary school, and he's bringing his love of music and performance to a new group of students this year. His Instagram video "Welcome to Kindergarten" is getting many kids and parents excited for the new school year.
The music video features Reed wearing a spiffy bowtie in a bright, organized classroom. He strums his guitar and sings in a calming tone, "Welcome to kindergarten where we can learn and play. Get ready for all of the fun we'll have today."
Reed is helping kids understand what kindergarten is all about.
His video explains kindergarten to kids in a fun, upbeat way. For instance, if you want to be successful, you have to listen to the teacher and follow the rules, he shared in the song.
He set expectations about what kids can look forward to, such as counting by fives and learning to take turns, and of course, how to hold a pencil. He explained that he wants everyone to try their best and "Be kind in every way."
The educator has made music before.
Reed has been in education for several years and created the music video "Welcome to 4th Grade" during his first year of teaching back in 2016. He made his kindergarten video to help acknowledge what he considers "angel" kindergarten teachers.
"I can't say it enough: kindergarten teachers [are] tremendous," he told Today. "I am not doing anything they haven't done forever — I just put it in front of a camera with music."
Fans love him.
The comments on his video are glowing, with parents and fellow teachers alike hoping to see more from Reed in the future.
"I LOVE IT!!!! I hope this plays in many many schools for years to come," one person wrote.
"I love this! Can't wait to sing it with my new kindergarteners in September," wrote another person.
Reed's happiness and enthusiasm are contagious.
"Could not help but smile big while listening to this, friend! LOVE it!" read one comment.
Reed understands that going to school can be challenging.
Every year millions of kids and parents face the first day of school blues. It can be a tough transition, and Reed understands that. After finding success bringing his music to older children, he decided to give it a shot with younger students. And folks are loving it.
"The kindergarten (year) can be really scary," Reed, who has a 5-year-old son, shared with Today. "I see it — kids are crying and so are parents."
Reed has tips to make back to school easier.
Reed said one of the best ways to get kids ready to go to kindergarten is to read books together about school. This helps students and parents to get a feel for what is to come and can help kids feel more prepared.
He suggested that parents don't hide emotions at drop-off. If they want to cry, they should shed a tear. Reed said it's OK. Talk to your kids about feelings and let them explain their own. This can make a significant impact, he suggested.
Finally, make that first day special.
Reed said it's better to make it memorable than to hype things up too much, which can cause anxiety. "Maybe your kid has a dope outfit he wants to wear, or you put his favorite snack in his lunchbox," Reed said.
Comparing the first day of school to another first, such as the first trip to the zoo or a family vacation, can help ease anxiety too.
