Beginning of the Year Skills

Here is a list of things you can work on over the summer and during the beginning of K. These skills will help your child build a strong foundation for their Kindergarten learning.

Fine Motor and Experience with Tools

This is a great time to help your child build their experience with the learning tools we use in school.

Color with crayons and markers

Playdough (this helps build the muscles your child needs for writing)

Use scissors- Cutting is an important skill and one that needs lots of practice

Letter Identification

Begin identifying letters in your child's name.

Move to other important letters like M for Mom or D for Dad and include names of siblings and pets.

Go on letter hunts while you are reading, driving, or out and about in the community.

Numbers and Counting

Practice counting out loud number to 10 and then to 20.

Counting on from numbers other than one (example start counting at 4- 4,5,6,7...)

Count backwards from 10.

Go on a number hunt around your home and out and about in the community.

Reading

Read and Enjoy Nursery Rhymes/Mother Goose Rhymes.

Studies show that Nursery Rhymes

Contribute to Future Reading Success
Improve Recall and Memorization Skills
Teach How Language Works
Promote Vocabulary Development
Prepare For Future Reading
Develop Rhyming Skills
Promote Higher Order Thinking Skills
Integrate with Other Subjects
Are Fun

Find some time each day to read aloud to your child. Reading stories together and rereading old favorites is a great way to build your child's reading skills.

Writing

Please see the Pencil Grip page under Resources for some fun Fine Motor work.

Now is a great time to get your child excited about coloring and drawing. These are the foundational skills writers need to develop strength in their hands. Also, drawing and coloring is FUN!

PLAY

Daily outdoor free play and exploration

Inspires Creativity
Builds Confidence
Teaches Responsibility
Improves Physical and Mental Heath and Development
Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Develops Social Skills
Develops Higher Level Thinking and Problem Solving Skills