Page 11 - LESSION 19.pmd

Smooth Transition

• Give your child puzzles and games that require counting and problem
solving. Let your child scribble, draw, write, and cut and paste.
• Sing the alphabet song with your child and provide letter magnets or other Notes
toys that will help him/her begin to recognize the letters of the alphabet.

• Take your child to the zoo, park, grocery store and post office. Talk about
the sights and sounds of your day.
• Make time for your child to sing, dance, climb, jump, run, and ride tricycles
or bikes.
• Choose childcare that promotes learning with well planned, fun, and
interesting activities.

2. Social readiness

Social readiness is as important as academic readiness. Being able to get along
with other children, follow directions, take turns, and say good-bye to parents
are skills that teachers hope to see from incoming children.

Activities for parents to get their child socially ready for school:

• Set rules and give consequences for breaking them.

• Have regular routines for mealtime and bedtime.
• Encourage your child to play with and talk to other children.

• Encourage your child to take turns and share with other children.

• Encourage your child to finish difficult or frustrating tasks once they have
begun them.

• Encourage your child to consider the feelings of others.
• Model and discuss positive ways for your child to express her or his
feelings.

• Discourage hitting, biting, screaming, and other negative behaviors.

• Kiss and hug your child several times a day.

3. Independence

When children complete basic self-help tasks such as zipping their coats or
tying their shoes, they feel a great sense of pride. Independence builds
confidence and self esteem. In school, children will be expected to do many
things on their own.

Activities for parents to get their child become independent and be ready
for school:

EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE AND EDUCATION 173