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Kindergarten Readiness Checklist: How to Prepare Your Child for School

  • Dec 31, 2025
  • 2 min read

If you are a parent of a preschooler or toddler, you’ve likely searched for a kindergarten readiness checklist to see if your child is on track. Whether your child is currently in an infant program, a toddler classroom, or a pre-k program, preparing for that transition to "big school" is a top priority for families looking for the best early childhood education.


Understanding what age children start kindergarten and what skills they need is the first step in ensuring a smooth transition. At Oak Tree, our preschool curriculum is specifically designed to bridge the gap between early play and formal schooling, focusing on the school readiness skills that teachers look for most.



Why is Kindergarten Readiness So Important?


Research shows that children who start school "ready" are more likely to thrive academically and socially. But here’s the secret: readiness isn't a race to see who can read first. It's about social-emotional development and executive function—skills like following directions, sharing with friends, and managing "big feelings." When a child feels prepared, they walk into that classroom with confidence!


3 Simple Ways to Help Your Child Prepare


You don't need expensive tutors or hours of worksheets. You can build school readiness through simple, everyday moments:


  1. Read Together Every Day: Reading for just 20 minutes a day builds early literacy skills and vocabulary. Ask questions like, "What do you think happens next?" to spark their curiosity.

  2. Practice Independence (Self-Help Skills): Kindergarten involves a lot of "doing it myself." Help your child practice opening their own lunchbox, putting on their coat, and using the bathroom independently. These self-help skills build massive amounts of confidence!

  3. Turn Play into Learning: Use "I Spy" to find letters on cereal boxes or count the blue cars you see on a walk. This helps with letter recognition and early numeracy in a way that feels like a game, not a chore.



Don't focus on perfection! Kindergarten teachers love students who are curious and kind. If your child can follow a two-step direction (like "Put on your shoes and grab your backpack") and is excited to make new friends, they are already well on their way.



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