I’ve been reading a lot of articles on what children should know before they enter Kindergarten, some written by independent writers, some from state board of education websites.
Some articles list simple accomplishments, others are exhaustive and lead me to wonder just what the teacher would be doing if the kids already knew everything the articles state they should know.
So, I want to hear from teachers only, preferably early education teachers: what would you like kids to already know before entering kindergarten, and what do you feel is your responsibility to teach them?
Thanks in advance- teaching is a wonderful, often thankless, profession! Keep up the good work.
I’m a Kindergarten teacher at a Public Charter School and let me tell you, I get children entering my class room on all different levels. I find its not what they already know when they start school in the beginning of the year that’s crucial but how involved their parents are throughout the year that’s most important. A child can start the year being one of my more advance students yet with lack of parent involvement through out the year I see the child fall behind. Yet kids come in not even being able to write their name and with co-teaching (teachers & parents) they end up being much better off.
As for a head start; a would have to say they should be able to count above 20, write their name (first & last) and know their phone number. Also be able to zip their coat and tie their shoes.
These items will help give kids self confidence in the class room at the beginning, they will see other children doing this and with feel better knowing they can too.!
One other point ! My husband is a high school teacher and he says it doesnt matter where they start in kindergarten, they all end up being a pain in the ass at the end! But thats why I dont teach teens.
I’m a Kindergarten teacher at a Public Charter School and let me tell you, I get children entering my class room on all different levels. I find its not what they already know when they start school in the beginning of the year that’s crucial but how involved their parents are throughout the year that’s most important. A child can start the year being one of my more advance students yet with lack of parent involvement through out the year I see the child fall behind. Yet kids come in not even being able to write their name and with co-teaching (teachers & parents) they end up being much better off.
As for a head start; a would have to say they should be able to count above 20, write their name (first & last) and know their phone number. Also be able to zip their coat and tie their shoes.
These items will help give kids self confidence in the class room at the beginning, they will see other children doing this and with feel better knowing they can too.!
One other point ! My husband is a high school teacher and he says it doesnt matter where they start in kindergarten, they all end up being a pain in the ass at the end! But thats why I dont teach teens.
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