PHYSICAL HEALTH
I can help keep myself safe.
Talk about safety rules and follow them with me.
SOCIAL & EMOTIONAL
I can manage many of my feelings.
Help me name my emotions. Talk to me about your feelings and emotions.
I WANT TO LEARN
I am creative.
Make up songs and dance with me. Follow my lead.
THINGS I KNOW
I express myself through art and music.
Make it easy for me to create things using paper, crayons, tape, and scissors.
LANGUAGE
I can write some letters.
Help me label my drawings. We can make small books from them.
Have Fun with Learning
You are your child's first and best teacher. You can help him or her learn while doing everyday things. For example, during trips to the grocery store, ask your child to help count the pieces of fruit or compare the weights of different fruits and vegetables using the scale.
Practice Problem-Solving
When your child is angry or upset about something, he or she needs you to help find a solution. Here are some tips:
- Talk to your child and help him or her explain to you why he or she is feeling bad: Ask questions, such as “Are you upset because your brother took the book you were looking at?”
- Let your child know that you understand these feelings but certain actions are not OK. For example, say, “I'd feel angry, too. You really love that book. I know you're really mad, but it's not OK to hit your brother.”
- Help your child calm down (try breathing slowly and deeply together)
- Help your child come up with ideas, such as, “How else could you let your brother know you weren't finished with the book? Is there another book you can look at?”
Think About Kindergarten Early
Each school district has its own rules. It is important to talk to your child's school a year before he or she starts school.
If your child will be going to before- or after-school care, look for a program with activities that match his or her interests. For example, some programs may offer outdoor sports or arts and crafts. Contact the school or Child Care Aware of Washington at 1-800-446-1114.
Children and Nightmares
Many children have nightmares. Here are some things you can do to help your child:
- Have a quiet before-bed routine to help your child calm down and get ready to sleep.
- Avoid scary books, movies, television, or video games. Young children may be scared by things that aren't scary to adults and older children.
- Put your child to bed in the same room every night - a room that is cool, quiet, and dark.
- When your child wakes up from a bad dream, hold him or her and talk about the dream. Reassure your child that he or she is safe and stay with your child until he or she is calm.