Getting your child ready for Kindergarten

As a former 3-6 Montessori teacher, one of the things that parents worry about is making sure their child is ready for that all important Kindergarten year. When asked, I have a list. But mostly, I say "engage your child's mind every day." As you go through everyday life - cooking, cleaning, traveling, playing, socializing - make sure each event, each moment is a teachable moment. Ask them simple questions. Applaud their success. Help them think. Encourage concentration.

But if you need a list, try this:

• Identify some letters of the alphabet

• Grip a pencil, crayon, or marker correctly

• Write first name using upper- and lowercase letters, if possible

• Count to ten

• Bounce a ball

• Hop on two feet, hop on one foot

• Speak using complete sentences

• Recognize some common sight words, like “stop”

• Identify rhyming words

• Use scissors, glue, paint, and other art materials with relative ease

• Repeat full name, address, phone number, and birthday

• Play independently or focus on one activity with a friend for up to 10 minutes

• Manage bathroom needs

• Get dressed

• Follow directions

• Clean up after self

• Listen to a story without interrupting