Social Skills for Kindergarten Readiness
Taking Turns & Sharing
Practice waiting for a turn during conversations and games.
Encourage using phrases like “My turn next?” or “Can I have a turn when you're done?”
Teach children to share toys, supplies, and space with others.
Speaking & Listening
Encourage raising a hand and waiting to be called on instead of interrupting.
Teach children how to politely ask for help from teachers or peers.
Help children learn to ask when they need clarification or more information.
Respect & Kindness
Teach children to recognize and respond to others’ emotions with kind words and actions.
Encourage assisting friends with tasks, like tying a shoe or picking up dropped items.
Personal Space & Self-Control
Teach that keeping hands and feet to oneself helps everyone feel safe.
Help children learn patience by practicing waiting for their turn to talk, play, or receive help.
Discuss appropriate responses in different situations (e.g., using words instead of yelling when upset).
Following Rules at School & Home
Help children understand that some rules might be different at school (e.g., raising hands to speak, waiting in line).
Handling Conflict & Emotions
Teach the difference between reporting important concerns (e.g., “Someone is hurt”) and tattling (e.g., “She won’t let me have the blue crayon”).
Encourage saying “Good game” and trying again instead of getting upset.
Teach kids that mistakes are part of learning and encourage phrases like “I’ll try again” or “What can I do differently next time?”
How to Introduce Themselves
Teach children how to make friends by saying, “Hi, my name is [Name]. What’s your name?”
Encourage making eye contact and smiling when introducing themselves.
Cleaning Up & Taking Responsibility
Encourage putting toys, books, and materials away after using them.
Teach responsibility by having children clean up after meals or playtime at home.
