7 Ways to Prepare Your Children for Kindergarten

Being ready for kindergarten is about far more than writing names and reciting ABCs. It’s also about building a foundation for deeper conceptual thinking, curiosity, creativity, and social and emotional skills that can help children in life.

For parents, this transition can be nerve-wracking and raises questions about how to best prepare their child for the next step in their educational journey. Here are seven ways to build strong routines and foundations for early learning.

1Language and literacy
Practice writing by making place cards for the dinner table. For younger children, it can be the first letter of each person’s name or fun scribbles on the card. Early scribbles are a part of developing writing skills.

2 Mathematics
Count while you work and encourage your child to do the same. Asking your children to put away toys and counting the toys together will make tidying more engaging and fun.

3Science
Make yard cleanup fun. As you tidy the yard, talk about the leaves, why they turn colors and why they fall to the ground. Afterwards, pile them up and jump in.

4Executive function
Incorporate your children in planning for the family. Help your child stay organized with a daily or weekly chart, and have them make the chart with you. For younger children, you can use drawings or pictures instead of words.

5Creative expression
Make up songs or repeat favorites as your children go through a few basic chores such as putting clothes away or making the bed.

6Responsibility and emotional development
Build a sense of responsibility and care for others with real or pretend pets. Take the dog for a walk, feed the cat or even water the pet rock. Taking care of a pet can help children develop a sense of responsibility and empathy for others. Be sure to always supervise and teach children about the proper handling of an animal.

7Health and well-being
Create daily routines that help your children practice fine motor skills while simultaneously doing a few chores around the house, such as setting a table, helping you cook by mixing or stirring, putting their clothes on or brushing their teeth.