Getting Your Child
Ready for Kindergarten

Not long ago, kindergarten was a low-key year for most children. Today, the emphasis on higher standards for all children has led to big changes in kindergarten. Many kindergarteners are expected to do what was once considered first-grade work. If you are like most parents, you wonder, “Is my child ready? What can I do to help?” This parent guide provides solid information to answer those questions. Starting kindergarten is a big step in a child’s life, and in your life, too. Most of us can distinctly remember starting school—our successes and our failures. Your child will be no different.

This guide provides the information you need to get your child started on the road to school success. It provides a checklist of skills your child should know before the big day: motor skills—fine and gross; learning skills—i.e. knowing the ABC’s, recognizing numbers and colors; and personal skills—i.e. getting dressed, tying shoes, using the restroom—and specific activities you can do to develop these skills at home with your child. In addition, it provides specific steps you can take to prepare your child emotionally and socially for kindergarten. It suggests strategies for overcoming separation anxiety and gives tips for helping the shy child. A comprehensive list of questions provided will help you as you decide if your child is ready for kindergarten or if your child should be held back a year. Every parent of a four-year-old should have a copy.