Kindergarten is an exciting adventure filled with new friendships, new skills, and important academic milestones! While this transition can feel overwhelming for both children and parents, there are simple steps you can take to help your child feel confident and ready for this new journey.
Understanding Kindergarten Readiness
Each school district and school may have different expectations for incoming kindergarteners. Checking with your child’s teacher or reviewing school guidelines can help you understand the specific milestones your child should be working toward. Preparing in advance can make the transition smoother and set them up for success!
Key Skills for Kindergarten Readiness
Here are some important skills that will help your child feel comfortable and capable in kindergarten:
Academic and Cognitive Skills
- Counting to 10 (or higher)
- Recognizing and naming basic shapes and colors
- Reciting their full name and the days of the week
- Identifying rhyming words and simple letter sounds
Fine Motor and Self-Care Skills
- Using scissors, glue, crayons, and paint
- Cleaning up after themselves after playtime or meals
- Opening lunch containers and snack bags independently
Social and Emotional Skills
- Taking turns and sharing with others
- Expressing emotions with words
- Following simple directions
- Practicing patience in group settings
It is also extremely important to remember that even though a child may not meet a milestone or goal as quickly as others it is completely normal! Every child has different strengths so do not worry if you feel your child is behind on these goals. Some children may be gifted in reading more than others or some may love arts and crafts. Everyone learns in different ways.
Additional Preparation at Home
It is also important to instill routines. In kindergarten, there will be a set schedule and it is crucial that your child can follow these routines to the best of their abilities. This goes hand in hand with trying to make following directions as fun as possible. Cleaning up, setting up a new game, or a scavenger hunt can help in allowing your child to follow directions.
Social skills are also important when starting kindergarten. It could be helpful to introduce your child to new friends before school starts. You can even try to get a list of names of students from your teacher and set up a playdate at a park.
Final Thoughts
Entering kindergarten is a big life change. It is important to remember you are listening to your child and affirming their strengths. It is tough for a child to enter a new place, with new people, and a brand new routine. Getting ready for these big life changes can make their transition a lot easier.
