How to Prepare Kindergarteners for 1st Grade

1 replies·24d ago(edited)
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Erica Yager

·24d ago

How to Prepare Kindergarteners for 1st GradeErica Yager

Hey everyone! I recently sent out a newsletter to our faculty and my students' parents, and I thought I'd share it here as well. Hope you find it a helpful guide to ensure your students (or your own child) are ready. 😊


Skills to work on for a Smooth transition to 1st Grade


1. Strong Number Sense

  • Counting forward & backward (1-20, ideally to 100)
  • Recognizing and writing numbers to 20
  • Understanding basic addition & subtraction within 10
  • Using ten frames and number lines


2. Early Reading Skills

  • Recognizing and writing all letters (upper & lowercase)
  • Knowing letter sounds and beginning to blend CVC words (cat, dog, sun)
  • Recognizing at least 20 sight words
  • Understanding basic punctuation (capital letters, periods)


3. Fine Motor & Writing Readiness

  • Holding a pencil correctly
  • Writing first and last name with correct letter formation
  • Cutting with scissors & using glue properly


4. Listening & Following Directions

  • Following multi-step directions
  • Listening to a short story and answering questions
  • Sitting for short periods & staying on task


5. Social & Emotional Skills

  • Taking turns and sharing
  • Expressing feelings with words
  • Asking for help when needed


How Can You Help at Home or in the Classroom?

  • Keep learning fun, don’t overdo it or get stuck on one thing for too long!
  • Read every day & talk about books
  • Encourage your kids to become independent in small tasks (zipping jackets, opening lunchboxes)


Wishing everyone a smooth and exciting transition! 😃

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