Is Your Child Ready for Kindergarten?
Starting kindergarten is a big milestone! While every child develops at their own pace, there are certain skills that will help your child feel confident and successful in their first year of school. Use this checklist to see where your child is and identify areas where they might need a little extra support.
Remember: Every Child is Different!
This checklist is a guide, not a strict requirement. Some children may not check every box and still thrive in kindergarten. The goal is to help you identify opportunities to support your child's development.
Language & Literacy Skills
- ☐ Recognizes and names most uppercase letters
- ☐ Recognizes some lowercase letters
- ☐ Knows that letters make sounds
- ☐ Can recognize their own name in print
- ☐ Attempts to write their own name
- ☐ Holds a book correctly and turns pages
- ☐ Understands that we read from left to right
- ☐ Speaks in complete sentences (5-6 words)
- ☐ Can retell a simple story
- ☐ Follows 2-step directions
Math & Number Skills
- ☐ Counts to 10 (or higher)
- ☐ Recognizes numbers 0-10
- ☐ Counts objects one-by-one (1-to-1 correspondence)
- ☐ Recognizes basic shapes (circle, square, triangle, rectangle)
- ☐ Sorts objects by color, size, or shape
- ☐ Understands concepts of "more" and "less"
- ☐ Recognizes simple patterns (AB, AB)
Fine Motor Skills
- ☐ Holds a pencil or crayon correctly
- ☐ Uses scissors to cut along a line
- ☐ Draws recognizable shapes and pictures
- ☐ Colors mostly within the lines
- ☐ Can trace letters and shapes
- ☐ Buttons and zips clothing
Social & Emotional Skills
- ☐ Separates from parents without major distress
- ☐ Plays well with other children
- ☐ Takes turns and shares
- ☐ Follows simple rules
- ☐ Expresses needs and wants verbally
- ☐ Shows curiosity and interest in learning
- ☐ Can sit and focus for 10-15 minutes
Self-Help Skills
- ☐ Uses the bathroom independently
- ☐ Washes hands properly
- ☐ Puts on coat and shoes independently
- ☐ Opens lunch containers and snack packages
- ☐ Knows full name and age
How to Build These Skills
If your child needs practice in any of these areas, here are some fun ways to help:
- Read together daily: Point to letters and words as you read
- Practice writing: Use sand, shaving cream, or finger paint for letter practice
- Count everything: Steps, crackers, toys - make counting part of daily life
- Play sorting games: Sort laundry by color, organize toys by size
- Encourage independence: Let them dress themselves, even if it takes longer
- Schedule playdates: Practice social skills with other children
Get a Personalized Assessment
Our free assessment will show you exactly where your child is academically and create a customized learning plan.
Take Free Assessment