Kids are heading back to school this week.  Parents with older kids are glad as by now many of them have taken up the lament, “I’m boooored...there’s nothing to doooo...”
But for parents of kindergarten kids, many feel somewhat anxious about their little ones move into the school system.  Many worry, “Is my child ready?”

There’s a lot of talk these days about school readiness. 

Recently I emailed a group of kindergarten teachers and asked them, “What are the 5 skills you hope children will walk through the kindergarten door in September being able to do?”

Their answers might surprise you. 

What was important were things like:  can play well with others, knows how to take turns, listens to and follows directions, pays attention to a short story, adjusts well to new situations and separates easily from parents. 

These skills relate to social and emotional development.  The ability to get along/play well with others and feel good/confident about oneself, are critically important for school readiness. 

When a child enters school with strong social emotional skills, they will be better learners.  
Of course reading to children so they have a love of books, teaching them letters, numbers, shapes, colours, etc. in fun and playful ways will also help them get ready for school.  

By helping them feel good about themselves and enjoy getting along with others, you are laying the foundations for success in school, and in life.

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