Every child develops in his own way, but there are some general things for your family to think about when getting your child ready to start kindergarten. Contact your local school district to find out about resources and information it has about starting kindergarten.
You can also request copies of Getting School Ready! from the Foundation for Early Learning or Let’s Talk About It: Your Child’s Education from the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).
Kindergarten readiness: A child’s checklist
Every child develops in his own way. These are a few general things for your family to think about when getting your child ready to start kindergarten.
I feel comfortable with the school I’ll be attending.
- I’ve gotten to visit my new school building, walk around and use the restrooms there.
- I know where my classroom is.
- I know where the playground is.
- I know where the school office is, and what I can go there for.
- I know where I’ll be dropped off and picked up each day.
- I know what to expect on school days.
- I know what time I’ll go to bed and what time I’ll get up on school days.
- I know I’ll have a healthy breakfast each morning, either at home or at school.
- I know where my bus stop is.
- I know some of the rules of my new classroom.
I am excited about starting kindergarten.
- My parents listen to my feelings about starting kindergarten, and help me answer the questions I have.
- My parents show me every day that learning is fun!
- I know I will meet children who are different from me and I will make new friends.
I know my parents are excited about me starting kindergarten.
- They read to me every day at home.
- They help out with school activities if they can.
- They attend teacher-parent meetings if they can.
- They have made sure my health records are up-to-date.
- They have checked into free- and reduced-price breakfast and lunch programs at my school.
- They encourage me to think of solutions when I have a problem.
- They explain to me that families have their own traditions and celebrations.
- They invite friends over to my house so I know how to play with other children.
I feel ready to start kindergarten.
- I know how to use the restroom.
- I know my full name, my phone number and address, and my parents’ or caregivers’ names.
- I know how to share with other children and wait my turn.
- I can sit and listen to a story.
- When I am upset, I know my feelings are OK and I know ways to calm myself down.
- I can follow simple directions.
- I know how to take care of my body by brushing my teeth, washing my hands and covering my mouth when I cough or sneeze.
- I know how to find a safe adult if I need help.
- I have plenty of chances each day to run, jump, dance and throw balls.
- I have plenty of chances each day to use my hands to do things like button my shirt, tie a knot and use crayons or scissors.