6) Kindergarten Readiness — How do I know if my child is ready for kindergarten?
How Can I Prepare My Child for Kindergarten?
With the support of caring adults, preparing for the transition to kindergarten can be a very positive experience for a child, giving him or her a sense of self-confidence and accomplishment. Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind, and some proactive steps you can incorporate into your daily routine:
- Read! Enjoy books with your child each day and talk about the pictures and the story. Reading to a child develops vocabulary and other essential early literacy skills. It also fosters a child’s sense of security and independence through close contact. Reading teaches a child that learning is fun!
- Observe and Identify: Encourage your child to identify letters, colors, shapes and numbers in your surroundings.
- Socialize: Provide opportunities for social development by spending time with other adults and children.
- Make! Create a space with a variety of easily accessible craft items.
- Foster Independence: Encourage your child’s independence and confidence by letting him follow simple directions to complete tasks and chores on his own.
- Eat Well: Provide a low-sugar, nutritious diet with five servings of fruits and vegetables each day.
- Get Good Sleep! Ensure your child sleeps 10 to 13 hours each day for healthy growth and development.
- Go Outside! Exercise and engage in daily outdoor physical play with your child.
- Listen and Talk about School in Positive Ways: Let her know that you are confident in her ability to do well. Expect your child’s transition to be successful.
- Schedule Your Early Childhood Screening: Any child who will go to school in the state of Minnesota must have an Early Childhood Screening record before entering kindergarten. It involves a simple, easy method of finding out how a child is growing and developing. Parents must schedule Early Childhood Screening and registration appointments within your own resident school district. If you are unsure as to whether your child is on the census, you may check with the Stillwater’s Enrollment Office at 651-351-8412.
Appointments for the screening typically last one hour and are held at the Early Childhood Family Center, 1111 Holcombe Street S., Stillwater MN 55082, and can be made by calling 651-351-4022. Please schedule your appointment prior to the end of this school year. If you do not live within Stillwater District 834, check with your own resident school district’s enrollment office.
Read more about Early Childhood Screening here.
Please feel free to contact us directly to discuss your child’s kindergarten readiness. Thank you for considering a partnership with River Grove for your child’s education!
Click through the pages to learn what makes River Grove kindergarten special!