“Malia, who is that? Is that your sister, Abby? Are you going to make muffins with her again today?” asked Barbara Reed, a Countdown to Kindergarten teacher, while Malia drew a picture of her family.

“Yes! You remembered!” responded Malia, a rising 4K student at White Knoll Elementary School. Malia, along with over 2,000 other rising 4K and 5K students across South Carolina, is participating in Countdown to Kindergarten, a program created by South Carolina First Steps in 2004 to prepare children for school.

Malia’s father, Justin Johnson, shared that he and his wife decided to enroll her in the Countdown program because she was very nervous about starting school. During her first visit with her teacher, Ms. Reed, Malia was shy and anxious. Now, she runs to Ms. Reed and gives her a big hug.

Malia was born during the height of the COVID pandemic, which limited her early exposure to people outside her family. Her parents believe that Countdown to Kindergarten has helped her socialize with others and eased her anxiety about starting school in a new environment.

Over a series of six visits, Malia and her family have gotten to know her teacher before the school year starts, building a strong relationship. They’ve also learned how to continue fostering Malia’s academic abilities at home.

As Malia becomes a bit frustrated after getting a number wrong, Ms. Reed smiles encouragingly and helps her count the dots. Justin expressed his gratitude for the program, saying, "I'm glad that the program has helped teach Malia about the effort that goes into learning and is giving her the skills she needs to keep learning and not give up." Ms. Reed reassures Malia that making mistakes is okay—it's how we learn!

The Friday before the first day of school. Malia and six other students from her class who participated in Countdown to Kindergarten met each other at school with Ms. Reed. They were able to tour the school, practice walking in a line, and see where they were going to eat lunch. The students even got to explore their new classroom and practice story time!

On Malia's first day of school, she walked in confidently, ready to take on the new school year with a smile on her face.

Support children like Malia

To ensure that more children like Malia have access to the resources and support they need to thrive, please consider donating to the Countdown to Kindergarten programs at South Carolina First Steps. Your contribution will help provide essential materials, training, and experiences that prepare young learners for a successful start to their educational journey. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our children and their futures.

Topics: Local Partnerships, School Transition