1. Physical Development:
It is important for children to be physically prepared for kindergarten, as it involves a lot of movement throughout the day. This includes being able to move and manipulate objects, such as writing tools, scissors, and toys. It also requires children to be able to sit in a chair comfortably with good posture, and to be able to transition from one activity to another.
2. Language Development:
The ability to communicate effectively is a key component in kindergarten preparedness. Children should be able to understand and follow directions, engage in conversations with peers and adults, answer basic questions, and recognize common sight words.
3. Social-Emotional Readiness:
Kindergarten involves interacting with other children and adults throughout the day which means that a child needs to be social-emotionally ready as well. This includes developing a sense of self-esteem, recognizing their own emotions, understanding how others feel, resolving conflicts with peers and teachers appropriately, following rules, and participating in group activities.
4. Cognitive Skills:
Kindergarten requires children to use their cognitive skills to understand basic tasks such as counting, sorting, pattern recognition and problem-solving. It is important for children to be able to think logically, make decisions and predictions, and solve problems independently.
5. Academic Skills:
In order to be ready for kindergarten in Ohio, a child should have basic academic knowledge of the alphabet, numbers, colors and shapes. They should also be able to trace letters, read simple words and recognize sight words.
6. Self-Help Skills:
Self-help skills are those that enable a child to take care of themselves independently with minimal help from adults. This includes dressing themselves properly (including tying shoes), washing and drying hands, brushing teeth, eating independently and using the restroom.
7. Health & Safety:
Health and safety are also important for kindergarten readiness in Ohio. This includes knowledge of how to safely cross the street, basic first aid skills, and understanding how to respond to various natural disasters or other dangerous situations. Additionally, it is important for children to have awareness of food allergies and proper hygiene habits such as regular handwashing.