What Can I Do to Prepare My Child for Kindergarten?

To find examples of things you can do to help your child, see our guide Preparing Your Child for Kindergarten: An Activity Guide for Families .  Another great resource, although lengthy, is Foundations: Early Learning Standards for North Carolina Preschoolers and Strategies for Guiding Their Success .  In this guide, each chapter covers a different domain with specific strategies for families to try.

Guidelines to help your child successfully transition into Kindergarten:

(These are not meant to be a checklist)

Children who are capable in the following areas have an easier adjustment to school, but remember, every child is different.  Your child may excel in one of these areas and be behind in another.  That is typical and should not be a reason to hold your child back.

* Can communicate their needs, wants and thoughts
* Can take turns and share
* Is enthusiastic and curious
* Can sit still and pay attention for short periods of time