Is my child ready for kindergarten? (1111)

School readiness is a complex issue. It is more than chronological age or the ability to recite numbers, letters and colors. There are several social, emotional, and physical skills that can help you decide if your child is ready for school.

If your child is socially ready, he will be able to play in a group and will trust other adults and children. Emotionally, your child should have some degree of independence and self-direction. She should have self-control or be able to wait when there is a delay. She should be willing to try new things.

Your child will need several language skills, including the ability to understand directions and express thoughts in sentences. Physically, your child should be able to dress and eat. She should be able to run, jump and balance. She should be able to manipulate small objects and copy simple line drawings.

Intellectually, your child should be able to concentrate on an activity  for 10-15 minutes, remember simple routines and solve simple problems. Social, emotional, and physical skills all play a role in determining if your child is ready for school.

For more information on this subject, Please visit the College of Agricultural Sciences Publications Web site.

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