Is my child ready for Kindergarten?

The school year of 2009-2010 is coming to a close. As we approach the Spring and Summer months the excitement and nerves of beginning a new school year starts to set in. Parents of children beginning elementary school for the first time feel a sense of happiness and sadness because the reality of early childhood ending but happiness because of the many delightful experiences ahead. Often times, first time elementary parents, are overwhelmed with the social expectations for the "best" school as well as their child being "good enough" or "smart" enough to do well in their academic journey. The reality is that you, as a parent, have been given one of the hardest jobs in the world with no guidance but the guidance of your gut. The innate qualities that you have make you the best at what you do as a parent. You do not need to know everything but you do need to acknowledge everything and prioritize what is the most important and what can wait. As a parent it is easy to become fixated on things that do not matter. Children who receive unconditional love, a listening ear, and the opportunity to explore in their early childhood years, do exceptionally well in their elementary years. At times, we can become focused on things that do not matter when we need to focus on the inner child and what they need emotionally. Childhood can be hard to understand but remember, you were a child once and you can connect to the feelings that made you want to never grow up. Remember the times when life was easier and you felt free. Childhood is simply the opportunity to be without regret and the freedom to explore without apologies- let your child be a child as long as they can...they will have the rest of their lives to be grown-ups.
The following are 7 things to look for in your child for Kindergarten readiness:
1. getting along with others
2. making and keeping friends
3. handling emotions
4. expressing oneself
5. wanting to learn new things
6. starting and finishing an activity
7. taking responsibility for actions
www.readyatfive.org
Is my child ready for Kindergarten the importance of social and emotional development
Is my Child Ready for Kindergarten?
NAEYC Where we stand on school readiness