Essential Italian Vocabulary for Starting Kindergarten: Words Every Family Should Know

Naturalmente
Jun 5
3 min read

Updated: Jun 13

Introduction

Starting kindergarten in a new country can be exciting—but also overwhelming. For families moving to Italy, one key to a smooth transition is understanding the basic vocabulary used in everyday school life. From communicating with teachers to joining in play with peers, learning key Italian terms helps both children and parents feel more confident, connected, and included.

This guide introduces the most useful Italian words and phrases to support successful integration into kindergarten.

1. Communicating with Teachers: Words for Parents

In Italy, building a good relationship with the school starts with knowing how to talk to teachers and staff. Some foundational words include:

insegnante / maestra / maestro – teacher
genitore – parent
scuola – school
orario di ingresso / uscita – drop-off and pick-up times
assenza / ritardo – absence / delay

Why it matters: These terms are essential for daily conversations and practical matters like reporting an absence or asking about your child’s day. Using them shows engagement and encourages respectful collaboration.

2. Child-Friendly Vocabulary: Words for Making Friends

For children, understanding everyday words helps them connect and build friendships. Encourage your child to learn:

giocare – to play
amico / amica – friend
condividere – to share
per favore / grazie / scusa – please / thank you / excuse me
giochi – games
posso giocare? – can I play?

Why it matters: These are the words children will use to join games, ask politely, and form bonds—key steps to feeling included and secure in a new environment.

3. Learning & Activities: Words for Exploring and Creating

Kindergarten in Italy involves lots of hands-on learning. Help your child recognize common activity words like:

disegno – drawing
carta / matita / colori – paper / pencil / crayons
canzoni / strumenti – songs / instruments
compiti – homework (rare, but occasionally mentioned)

Why it matters: These words prepare children for art, music, and classroom tasks—and help parents talk about what their child is learning.

4. Daily Routines: Understanding the Kindergarten Schedule

A smooth school day depends on knowing the rhythm and routine. Key vocabulary includes:

attività – activities
recreazione / pausa pranzo – break / lunch break
rientro – return after break
giardino – garden or outdoor play space
scuola all’aperto – outdoor learning

Why it matters: Knowing these words helps both children and parents feel oriented throughout the day and reduces anxiety about transitions.

5. Supporting Inclusion Through Language

Italy encourages the integration of children from all cultural backgrounds. Learning emotional and expressive vocabulary helps with self-expression:

aiuto – help
felice / triste / arrabbiato – happy / sad / angry
ho bisogno di… – I need…

Why it matters: These words empower children to express feelings, ask for assistance, and take part in classroom conversations—important steps toward inclusion and well-being.

Conclusion: Language as a Bridge to Belonging

Learning key Italian words used in kindergarten helps children settle in, communicate confidently, and build friendships. For parents, understanding school-related vocabulary supports smoother conversations with teachers and shows a strong commitment to their child’s development.

By embracing this shared language, families become active participants in school life—and help create an inclusive community where every child can thrive.