How to Get your Child Ready for Kindergarten

Children should have basic listening skills when they enter kindergarten.

Most school districts expect children entering kindergarten to have basic knowledge and the ability to follow simple rules and commands. You'll also need to confirm with your doctor that the child has had all his immunizations. The child should have also mastered everyday tasks such as putting on her coat, washing her hands and being able to hold a pencil.

Things You'll Need

• Activity books
• Same-aged friends
• Paper
• Crayons
• Scissors
• Glue

Instructions

1. Practice some basic language definitions with your child, such as "in," "on," "next to," "on top of," "under," "same" and "different. Build these skills with your child by purchasing and completing a kindergarten language workbook.

2. Teach your child the alphabet and how to form uppercase letters. She doesn't have to be an expert but she should know how to identify letters. Teachers will improve these foundational skills throughout the school year.

3. Teach your child how to write his name or nickname.

4. Teach him how to draw a 10-part person (head, eyes, nose, mouth, ears, body, arms, legs, hands and feet. Make sure all the body parts are in the correct position.

5. Show your child how to put on and take off his coat and shoes. Teachers don't have time to help every kid with her clothing fasteners. If your child is unable to tie her shoes, let her wear Velcro shoes to school and work on shoe tying at home.

6. Work on teaching your child simple friendship skills with peers her own age. Arrange play dates or neighborhood get-togethers. Some helpful basic skills include turn-taking, winning and losing, greeting a friend, choosing a game, ending a game and saying goodbye to a friend.

7. Make sure your child knows the basics on how to cut simple shapes out with scissors and how to use glue. Kindergarten teachers have children do lots of projects. Prepare your child by giving him experience with scissors, glue, paints and art supplies. Make sure he knows the names of basic shapes.

8. Review basic manners and safety skills.

9. Explain to the child about how she will get to school, what will happen when she is there and when she will see you again. Visit the school and meet the teacher to decrease any fears the child may have.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have any concerns about your child's development, talk to your pediatrician.

References

• Illinois Early Learning Project: Getting Ready for Kindergarten