In the sea of cut-off dates, basic skills assessments and other academic lingo, many parents may find it difficult to determine whether or not their child is truly ready for kindergarten.
To help you assess your child's own readiness, The Villages has provided the following checklist of academic and social skills, milestones, and achievements that can help you gauge whether or not your little one is ready for kindergarten.
Your child is probably ready for kindergarten if he or she:
Has had a physical examination by a doctor or other health care provider. Your kindergartner will also need to have all immunizations up-to-date
Is able to walk, run, and climb
Is able to hold and use a pencil, crayons and scissors
Can talk well enough for others to understand what is being said
Gets along with other children and adults
Is able to work alone and with others
Will listen to a story in a group
Follows rules
Can remember and carry out two or three directions
Can take turns, respect others' property and share
Can take care of their own belongings, such as their coat
Is able to go to the toilet and wash their hands
Finishing work that they start
Source: Illinois Early Learning Project
Tips to Help You and Your Child Get Ready for Kindergarten
Help her learn about the world around her. Take her on interesting trips—to the library or grocery store, on a bus ride, or to a museum or park—and talk with her about what she sees. Encourage her curiosity, and help her find answers to her questions.
Teach her the names of colors and shapes.
Make sure she knows her full name and how to get to school and back.
Take advantage of any early kindergarten screening or school visits your school may offer.
Call the school office and ask if there is information on what is expected of students and parents.
Call your local school district office to find out about preschool screening or services for children who have special needs.
