Getting Ready for School

Begins at Birth

Kindergarten teachers report that a child’s social and emotional “literacy”—the development of self-control, respect for others, a sense of confidence and competence—is vital for success in kindergarten. Without these skills, children are at a greater disadvantage in school.

             Center on Families, Communities, Schools and Children’s Learning

School Readiness

Most parents watch proudly as their 5-year-old grabs her backpack and heads out the door to her first day of kindergarten—her “official” start into the world of education and learning. Few might imagine that their child has actually been preparing for this day since she first opened her eyes.

With so much emphasis today on preparing children for school, parents are eager to know how they can help their young children learn. One of the best things you can do to get your baby or toddler off to the best start is by using your everyday interactions to teach the basic skills she will need to cooperate, get along with others, and be an enthusiastic learner.

Children are born ready to learn. Children are naturally curious beings who are motivated to make sense of the world around them. The brain is the only organ that is not fully formed at birth. During the first 3 years, trillions of connections between brain cells are being made. A child’s relationships and experiences during the early years greatly influence how her brain grows.

Children learn best through their everyday experiences with the people they love and trust, and when the learning is fun.  That’s one of the reasons why quality childcare is so important. 

Everyday experiences are great opportunities for learning. You can teach about shapes by cutting cheese into triangles and squares, or about textures as you play outside and feel the grass, rocks, and, if you can stand it, dirt and mud. You don’t need to buy expensive toys. Often what children like best are household items such as pots and pans, wooden spoons, and plastic containers.

You teach your child self-control when you remain calm in stressful situations, such as being stuck in traffic. Your child learns about responsibility when you pick up the litter you see on the playground. You model helping others when, together, you take care of the neighbor’s cats. Children learn manners and respect for others when they see you thank the grocery store clerk. They learn about trust when you keep your word. 

Children also learn about making friends and getting along with others as you take a walk and talk with neighbors. They learn self-control when they have to wait their turn to go down the slide at the playground. They build self-confidence when they’re able to feed themselves.

So remember—babies are born learners and school readiness starts day one!

Adapted from an article from Zero to Three