How do I know if my child is ready for First Grade?
Each spring our teachers, Mrs. Berardi, Mrs. Uslan, Miss. Curasco, and Miss. Misko are approached by parents of Kindergartners who ask the question, "How do I know if my child is ready for First Grade?". We have found that our most successful students have possessed the following academic, social, and personal hygiene skills upon entering First Grade.
Academic Skills
First Graders should:
- know their colors.
- be able to write their first and last name.
- be able to recognize, name, and write all uppercase and lowercase letters of the alphabet.
- be able to recognize and name numerals 0 through 30.
- be able to write numbers 0 through 12.
- be able to count a set of 30 objects.
- be able to recite their name, address, and phone number.
- begin to associate letters and sounds.
- be able to listen attentively to a story.
- be able to recall facts and details from a story.
- be familiar with nursery rhymes and fairy tales.
- be able to follow a 2-step or 3-step direction.
- be able to organize and maintain personal belongings, i.e. backpack, school supplies, and desk.
- have respect for classroom materials, i.e. books, tapes, games, manipulatives
Social Skills
First Graders should:
- be able to regulate their voices, i.e. use an "inside" or an "outside voice.
- be able to wait their turn.
- be able to exercise appropriate self control.
- be polite and receptive toward others' opinions.
- be aware of "personal space".
- respond appropriately to verbal and nonverbal cues, i.e. body language and facial expressions.
Personal Hygiene
First Graders should:
- be able to tie their shoes, button buttons, and zip coats.
- have good bathroom habits, flush and wash hands.
- be able to use a tissue.
