There are many things to consider when determining whether your child is ready for kindergarten. Following are some of the child social development teachers tend to look for when helping make the readiness decision.
A child who plays:
- cooperatively with other children
- and shares, takes turns and assumes his share of group responsibility
- and can run, jump, skip and bounce a ball with comparative dexterity.
A child who adjusts:
- to changes in routine and to new situations without becoming fearful
- to opposition or defeat without crying or sulking
- to the necessity of asking for help when needed.
A child who works:
- without being easily distracted
- and follows directions
- and completes each task
- and takes pride in her work.
A child who obeys:
- classroom rules as established by the teacher
- safety rules on the playground
- fire-drill rules quickly and quietly.
A child who listens:
- to directions without interrupting
- to stories and poems for five minutes without restlessness.
A child who hears:
- sounds that are alike or different
- and can identify familiar sounds.
A child who sees:
- likenesses and differences in pictures and designs
- and letters or objects that match.
A child who understands:
- the relationship inherent in such words as up and down, top and bottom, over and under, little and big.
- the meaning of words that represent people, places and things.
A child who speaks clearly and can:
- stay on the topic in class discussions
- retell a short story or poem in the correct sequence
- and tell a story or relate an experience of his own.
A child who thinks and can:
- give unique ideas and important details
- and give reasons for her opinions.
Mayfair Co-op Preschool is located in Farmington Hills, Michigan.