Every day is full of new experiences for young children. Parents, family members and caregivers play a huge role in nurturing them during this critical period of brain growth and development.
And while the first day of kindergarten seems to be a long way off, parents can begin to prepare their child even before those first words or initial steps. In fact, babies are born ready to learn. Multiple studies have shown that a focus on early childhood education, including accredited programs such as Kiddie Academy, have a big impact on future success in school.
Here are 6 essential skills children need for kindergarten success, along with some tips for encouraging their development:
1. Language Skills: Learning to speak starts with nonverbal communication, such as gestures and facial expressions, then moves on to building a full vocabulary. You can help by speaking to your child in complete sentences and sharing stories throughout the day.
2. Literacy Skills: Learning to read is a process that can begin shortly after birth simply by reading books to your child. Teaching your child to turn the pages, follow the story, and associate the words with the story are building blocks to literacy.
3. Mathematics: Make a habit of counting objects and grouping them by size, shape, or color with your child. Even before he or she can take part in the activity, you’ll be demonstrating the importance of patterns and numbers.
4. Fine Motor Skills: Before a child can write his or her name, it’s important to acquire the fine motor skills that allow him or her to hold and manipulate a writing tool. Simply grabbing and reaching for a toy is a good start.
5. Critical Thinking Skills: We’re all born ready to be problem-solvers. Babies learn, for instance, that crying when hungry results in being fed. Throughout childhood, you can reinforce such lessons as cause and effect to build critical thinking skills for a lifetime. You can also help your child create sensory memories by offering toys with a variety of textures and sounds.
6. Social Skills: The ability to follow instructions, work in group settings, and take turns are important skills that a child needs to be ready for kindergarten. Babies can start building these social skills by playing near and developing familiarity with other infants and teachers. Playdates are an ideal setting.
At Kiddie Academy, learning happens every day using an educator-designed curriculum that empowers teachers to be creative and parents to be involved, fostering an environment that makes learning fun and impactful.
This post was created by SLM Partner Studio on behalf of Kiddie Academy in Des Peres and O’Fallon. Find out more about Kiddie Academy and schedule a tour of their facilities by visiting kiddieacademy.com/stlouis.
