Kindergarten Readiness
Kindergarten Readiness refers to a set of skills that are necessary for children to have to be academically, socially and emotionally ready when they begin kindergarten. Kindergarten used to be more about play and socialization but is now more focused on academics. Children are expected to have a basic set of skills upon entering kindergarten. Not all children will have mastered every skill, and this is not cause for concern. The list below should function as a guide for parents when they consider if their child is ready to begin school.
Academic Skills that most kindergartners have:
Speak clearly and be understood by others
State full name and age
Identify some letters of the alphabet
Count to ten or higher
Count objects
Pretend to read books by memory or by looking at pictures
Recognize labels, logos, and store signs
Match and sort objects
Understand concepts such as under/over, on/off, more/less, small/large
Name and/or draw some shapes
Enjoy being read to / listening to stories
Social and Emotional Skills:
Speak clearly and be understood by others
State full name and age
Identify some letters of the alphabet
Count to ten or higher
Count objects
Pretend to read books by memory or by looking at pictures
Recognize labels, logos, and store signs
Match and sort objects
Understand concepts such as under/over, on/off, more/less, small/large
Name and/or draw some shapes
Enjoy being read to / listening to stories
Language Skills
Express needs and wants verbally
Speak in complete sentences
Use words, not physical action to express emotions such as anger or disappointment
Understand and follow two-step directions
Fine Motor Skills
Hold pencil/crayon properly
Control scissors
Trace lines or basic shapes
Gross Motor Skills
Run and skip
Jump with feet together, balance on one foot
Climb stairs with alternating feet
Walk backward
