PHYSICAL HEALTH
My senses work together to help me move.
Teach me games that help me use my whole body.
SOCIAL & EMOTIONAL
I learn about others feelings.
When you comfort me when I am hurt or upset, I learn to do the same for others.
I WANT TO LEARN
I keep trying.
Stay nearby and encourage me when I try something new.
THINGS I KNOW
I can talk about the past and the future.
Ask me what I did this morning or what I plan to do this weekend.
LANGUAGE
I know that words are made from letters.
Put my name on my things. Help me try to write it myself.
Help Your Child Get Ready for Kindergarten
You may be thinking about what you can do to get your child ready for kindergarten. Many of the things you do every day help him or her get ready. For example:
- Talk with your child about things he or she is interested in.
- Read a story to your child and talk about how it could have a different ending.
- Look at family pictures and talk about them.
- Help your child learn how to solve problems that come up when playing with his or her friends.
- Help your child learn how to write his or her name.
A cavity can make it hard to talk and focus, so good oral health is an important part of starting school. Help your child brush after breakfast and before bed with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Your child will need your help brushing until about eight years old.
Help Your Child Express Feelings
Your four-year-old may have very strong feelings. This is normal, but it might worry or surprise you. Your child is learning to express feelings and needs your help. Here are some ways to help:
• Help your child use words to tell you what he or she feels and whether he or she is happy, sad, frustrated, angry, or afraid.
• Take the time to stop and listen to your child.
• Find books about feelings to read together.
Children are Curious About Their Bodies
If your child asks questions about his or her body, give simple, honest answers. Try not to make your child. Teach the correct names of body parts.
It is normal for young children to look at and touch their genitals (private parts). They also may be curious about other children’s genitals. Check on children while they play. If they are talking about or exploring each other's bodies, calmly help them find other things to do.
Teach your child where it's OK to take off clothing and touch his or her genitals. The bathroom and bedroom are such places. Also teach when it's OK for other people to touch his or her genitals. Examples are a doctor's exam or a parent helping to clean up after using the toilet.
Touching and exploring are normal, but you may have questions or concerns about sexual abuse. Signs may include changes in mood and behavior and/or physical symptoms, such as genital bruises, bleeding, or infections. If you see these physical symptoms, take your child to the doctor or emergency room right away. You should also be concerned about a child who knows things about sex that only a grown-up should know or who is sexually aggressive. If you have any concerns, call your doctor or nurse.