Mom Writes Stuff

You almost did cartwheels on the living room floor and broke your electric sunglasses when you first saw your four-year old son take a keen interest in those box of crayons which were a gift to him a couple of years back. He’s definitely growing up, and you feel it in your bones that he is ready to start kindergarten. But how can you tell for sure if your little one is all set for it?

Here are the signs of readiness to start kindergarten according to the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics:

• He can communicate about things he needs and wants.

• He knows how to share and take turns.

• He is curious and enthusiastic about trying new activities.

• He has the ability to pay attention and sit still.

• He can use a pencil and paint brushes.

• He can count up to 20.

• He can recognize the letters of the alphabet.

Other common signs that a kid is ready for kindergarten are that he can follow one to three step instructions, behave well in the classroom, and can get along well with other kids.

Do know though, that four- and five-year-olds often develop at different speeds, so it can sometimes be difficult to know which kids are ready for school and which ones aren’t. You may find that while some five-year-olds are already reading, others can’t even count to 10 yet.

Before you make your kid take the kindergarten plunge, be sure that he is ready.