Starting kindergarten is an exciting time for both children and their parents, but it can also cause some anxiety. To help ease the transition, here are 10 things that teachers wish kindergarten kids knew on the first day of school.
1. How to follow simple instructions
Being able to listen carefully and follow simple instructions is an essential skill for kindergarteners. Teachers wish that children come prepared to pay attention and follow directions from day one.
2. Recognizing their own name
Children should be able to recognize their own names in print. This is important because they will need to identify their personal belongings, cubbies, and seating arrangements in the classroom.
3. Proper restroom manners
Knowing how to use the restroom independently, including good hygiene practices such as hand washing, is crucial in kindergarten. Teachers appreciate students who come prepared with these basic skills.
4. The basics of sharing and taking turns
Kindergarten is a time where children learn social skills like sharing and taking turns with their classmates during playtime and group activities. This helps them develop strong relationships and teamwork skills.
5. Familiarity with numbers and letters
Though they don’t have to master letters and numbers yet, being familiar with what they look like can give children a head start in language arts and math instruction.
6. Routines and manners at mealtime
Knowing how to open lunchboxes, utilize utensils, chew with mouths closed, and use polite language during mealtime can help the lunch period run more smoothly for everyone involved.
7. Managing basic clothing tasks
It’s important that kindergarten kids know how to navigate zippers, buttons, snap fasteners, and shoelaces on their own or with minimal assistance from the teacher.
8. Handling supplies appropriately
Children should understand the proper way to use school supplies like crayons, glue sticks, and scissors. This will help prevent accidents and maintain a safe, productive environment.
9. Expressing feelings and needs using words
Being able to communicate with teachers and classmates using words helps kindergarten kids express their feelings, ask questions, and share ideas effectively.
10. The concept of personal space
Understanding the importance of respecting others’ personal space can help reduce conflicts between classmates and create a more harmonious learning environment.
In conclusion, preparing your child by teaching these skills before kindergarten starts can make the transition smoother for both the student and the teacher. Remember to practice patience and be supportive during this exciting time of growth and learning.
