Getting Ready
Writing It is normal for children entering kindergarten to show an interest in writing , scribble writing or stringing random letters together . Provide materials such as crayons , chalk , markers , pencils and paints , to help your child explore with print . Handwriting guidelines can be found on the back of the alphabet placemat ( distributed at registration ).
Engage your child in looking for and recognizing words in print , while reading , shopping , waiting at a clinic , or riding in a vehicle . Make sure that your child is able to recognize his or her own name in print , and begins learning to write it prior to kindergarten . You may wish to start by providing a visual example , labeling your child ’ s personal belongings around your home .
recall simple story details of who , what , where and when . Ask him or her to pick out rhyming words , or to think of a word that rhymes with one of the words from the story .
Kindergarten students are eager to learn to read themselves . You can help set the stage for emergent reading by making sure that your child can recognize his or her name and the upper and lowercase letters in print . You can do so by chanting the alphabet chart ( distributed at registration ) on a daily basis . In addition , encourage your child to begin associating sounds with each letter . You may also wish to explore the many interactive games that can be found on the Internet by searching for “ alphabet games .” Alphabet practice and strides prior to kindergarten will bring your child success in both reading and writing .
Communication skills Talking is one of the most important things you can do with your child , as it helps to connect the spoken and written word . Engage in conversations with your child on a daily basis ; while doing things like taking a walk , shopping in a store , visiting a zoo , or eating in a restaurant . The experiences will result in memories , which will provide a rich stimulus for kindergarten writing . Encourage your child to initiate or carry on conversations , by practicing the following steps when speaking or being spoken to :
• Take turns talking .
• Listen carefully to the person speaking .
• Ask others to share their thoughts and ideas .
• Look at the person speaking
• Respecting others by not interrupting .
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