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Kindergarten Readiness Checklist
Essential skills checklist for kindergarten preparation
How to Use This Checklist
Review each skill with your child over time. Check off skills they've mastered, and use unchecked items as areas to focus on. Remember: every child develops at their own pace. This checklist is a guide, not a strict requirement. Consult with your child's teacher or pediatrician if you have concerns.
Language & Literacy
- Recognizes and names most uppercase letters
- Recognizes and names most lowercase letters
- Knows the sounds of most letters
- Can write their first name
- Recognizes their written name
- Holds a book correctly and turns pages
- Understands that print is read left to right
- Can retell a simple story
- Follows 2-3 step directions
- Speaks in complete sentences (5-6 words)
Math & Numbers
- Counts to 20 or higher
- Recognizes numbers 0-10
- Counts objects accurately (1-10)
- Understands concepts of more, less, same
- Recognizes basic shapes (circle, square, triangle, rectangle)
- Can sort objects by color, size, or shape
- Understands simple patterns (AB, ABC)
- Compares sizes (big/small, tall/short)
- Understands positional words (up, down, in, out, over, under)
- Can count objects in a group without counting each one (up to 5)
Fine Motor Skills
- Holds pencil/crayon with proper grip
- Cuts with scissors along a line
- Colors within the lines (mostly)
- Draws recognizable shapes and figures
- Can trace letters and shapes
- Strings beads or buttons
- Uses glue appropriately
- Buttons and zips clothing
- Ties shoes (or learning to)
- Builds with blocks (tower of 8+)
Gross Motor Skills
- Runs, jumps, and hops with coordination
- Balances on one foot for 5+ seconds
- Catches a bounced ball
- Throws a ball overhand
- Climbs playground equipment safely
- Walks up and down stairs alternating feet
- Skips or gallops
- Follows movement directions
Social-Emotional Skills
- Separates from parents/caregivers without distress
- Plays cooperatively with other children
- Takes turns and shares
- Follows classroom rules and routines
- Expresses emotions appropriately
- Shows empathy toward others
- Accepts responsibility for actions
- Works independently for 10-15 minutes
- Asks for help when needed
- Handles transitions between activities
Self-Care & Independence
- Uses the bathroom independently
- Washes and dries hands
- Puts on and takes off coat
- Opens lunch containers and packages
- Knows full name, age, and birthday
- Knows parent/guardian names
- Follows basic safety rules
- Manages personal belongings
Notes & Observations
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