Getting Ready
Mathematics Kindergarten students will count , compare , and represent numbers in various ways , as well as explore the beginning concepts of algebra , geometry and measurement . You can help prepare your child for mathematics success by ensuring that they enter kindergarten able to recognize numbers to 9 or more , count objects in collections of ten , count in sequence to 10 or more , recognize and duplicate simple patterns , identify and name common shapes and colors , and describe objects with two or more characteristics . Many games you have at home or can purchase at the local store involve mathematical thinking .
In addition , many interactive games for teaching early mathematics skills can be found on the Internet by searching for “ kindergarten number games .” Most children enjoy playing with numbers and are thrilled to learn that it also brings them kindergarten math success .
Social development Following rules , respecting people and property , following routines , playing and cooperating with others , accepting others , finding peaceful solutions to conflicts are all skills crucial to your child ’ s success in the classroom . You can encourage social development by providing structured opportunities for your child to interact cooperatively with other children and adults in the neighborhood , family or community settings .
Self-management Kindergarten provides many opportunities for children to follow rules and routines , manage transitions and materials respectfully . You can help your child prepare
for kindergarten by giving them responsibility for picking up toys , cleaning up play areas and caring for materials . Offer your help , but don ’ t do all of the work ! Personal care skills should be performed independently – especially toileting , dressing , hand washing , opening lunch / snack packaging , and eating . It is recommended that you send a spare underwear in your child ’ s back pack for the first few months of school .
Fine motor skills Fine motor skills involve the small muscles of the body that enable such functions as writing , grasping small objects and fastening clothing . You can help your child develop fine motor strength by encouraging drawing using markers , crayons , colored pencils and chalk . Drawings needn ’ t be perfect , and scribbling is just fine for developing fine motor skills . Other activities such as playing with clay , picking up small objects with tweezers or tongs , and snipping paper with scissors build fine muscle control and are enjoyable .
Gross motor skills Gross motor skills are important for major body movement , balance and coordination . Gross motor abilities share connections with other physical functions . A child ’ s ability to maintain upper body support , for example , will affect his or her ability to sit upright in class and to write . You can help your child develop gross motor strength by encouraging activities such as movement to music , walking / running , swimming , riding tricycles / bikes , pushing / pulling wagons , skipping , jumping , climbing , crouching , swinging , sliding and navigating obstacle courses .
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