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Kindergarten Readiness

A young girl with her hand inside a small pumpkin.

What is Kindergarten Readiness? 

For most children, Kindergarten is the start of formal classroom education. Even for children who have been in a preschool or daycare, it is a big transition. You might be wondering- is my child ready? 

 

Two young girls on bicycles, smiling side by side.

Motor Skills

Before children can start learning academics, they need to have developed motor skills. These skills form the basis for learning and become intertwined with other areas of learning as a child grows. These skills encompass both fine motor skills, which involve precise movements like holding a pencil, and gross motor skills, which involve larger movements like running or jumping.

A young girl standing in front of two students dressed up in postal service outfits.

Language and Literacy Activities

Language and literacy skills are critical to preparing children for Kindergarten, as they serve as the foundation for learning to read, social interaction, and overall development. (All documents are in English and Spanish)

 
A young student is engaged in a STEM activity.

Social Emotional Learning

Many people think that school readiness is academic preparedness. WHile these are important, research shows that the link between social and emotional skills and school success is strong. Children cannot learn when they are struggling to follow directions, get along with their peers, and control their emotions in a classroom setting.

A young boy is holding an object up for a math activity.

Math Activities

 

Math is all around us. As your child plays, he/she is building math skills. Mathematical thinking helps your child learn to reason, connect ideas, and think logically. Children can explore math concepts in many different ways. You can build your child's math skills through activities you do every day. 

Two young PreK students, a girl and a boy, reading together.

Books to Read

Reading to your child is an invaluable activity that supports their development in numerous ways. Reading together not only helps develop your child's literacy skills but also strengthens your bond with them. By making reading an enjoyable and regular part of your routine, you're setting the foundation for a lifelong love of reading. 

 

 

Resources 

California Preschool Learning Foundations
The California Preschool Learning Foundations outline key knowledge and skills that most children can achieve when provided with the kinds of interactions, instruction, and environments that research has shown to promote early learning and development. The foundations can provide early childhood educators, parents, and the public with a clear understanding of the wide range of knowledge and skills that preschool children typically attain when given the benefits of a high-quality preschool program

Kid Builders Resources
This fun and free, activity-packed resource helps your children grow up healthy and ready to succeed in school and life.

OC Public Libraries
Explore all the programs, resources and events offered by the OC Public Libraries, including its Kindergarten Readiness page.