Helping your Kindergartner at home is essential to effective growth and learning of classroom social
and academic skills. There are many things parents, grandparents, and other caregivers can do to
promote skills at this and any age.
Playing games like cards and other board games promote the idea of taking turns and how to win and
loose graciously..
Educational games and flash cards provide a reinforcement for concepts that we are learning in the
classroom
Reading with your child is vital in helping with listening and independent language skills. When a child
is read to, he/she hears the rhythm and intonation necessary for correct reading. A child will also
develop better vocabulary and enhance their comprehension skills as he/she is read to. As you student
becomes a bit more proficient at decoding, then takes turns reading--Parents reads on line or page,
then the child reads, etc. Make this a fun and special time with your child.
Writing, coloring, and doing various arts and crafts projects at home promote visual/spacial skills and
help develop small motor skills. Coloring books, watercolors, Play-Doh, stamps, colorful markers, or
other art supplies are great for promoting creativity and brain development.
Outside time, in either formal sports or informal play is essential in a child's development. Large
motor skills are enhanced by throwing, catching, and bouncing balls; running in the backyard or at the
park; swinging on the swings; and climbing on the jungle gym.
Don't underestimate car time! Driving to and from anywhere is the perfect time to play little learning
games, ask you child what is going on at school, or just sing a song together.
