Dear Kindergarten Parent,
Congratulations, your child has been in kindergarten for a few weeks! By now you probably have mastered a lot of skills, and your child has met new friends and grown in confidence. You have done a great job getting them through the first few days of this new adventure! Below are additional skills you can continue to work on with your child:
Early Computer Skills
Technology can be part of many kindergarten classrooms, but children are not expected to be computer experts right away. A few simple skills can help them feel comfortable. You can show your child how to:
- Use a mouse to point and click.
- Find and type the letters in their first name.
- Put on and remove headphones independently.
Remember, a teacher will always be nearby when children are handling chromebooks, iPads, or other devices. They will be able to ask an adult for help if something isn’t working.
Early Academic Skills
Academic learning begins in kindergarten, so there is no expectation that children will arrive knowing everything. Reading together and learning through play are some of the best ways to prepare for the classroom. You can help by:
- Reading together for 15-20 minutes each day.
- Talking about letters, especially those in your child’s name.
- Counting everyday objects.
It’s normal for you and your child to continue feeling nervous, even as you get past these first few weeks. Stay calm and reassure your child that school is a safe and exciting place to be. Their teachers know that every child has different strengths and skills, and they are ready to meet them where they are.
Kindergarten is about learning, growing, and discovering just how capable children are. I am sure you’re already amazed at how much your child has grown, and how much they will continue to grow.
You’ve got this. And so do they.