Kindergarten

The mission of Parkside Elementary School, in partnership with the community, is to ensure all students are provided a safe learning environment where they have the right to learn and develop productive habits which enable them to become lifelong learners.

How Parents Can Help

• See that your child is punctual and attends school regularly.
  
• Support the school in its effort to maintain proper discipline.
  
• Establish a time for homework and review it regularly.
  
• Encourage your child's efforts by having high expectations.
  
• Stay aware of what your child is learning.
  
• Read with your child and let your child see you read.

What do we expect from kindergarten students?

This is a list of many, but not all of the "stepping stones" for kindergarten students. Your child's ability to become proficient with the following concepts as a kindergartener will help him/her succeed as a first grader next year. As you read through the list, consider your child's ability to meet these expectations. If you have questions or concerns, please consult your child's teacher.

Personal and Social Development

• Play and work well with other children.
  
• Follow school and classroom rules.
  
• Use materials purposefully and respectfully.
  
• Complete a given task in reasonable time.

Reading and Language

• Name all capital and lower case letters in random order.
  
• Listen to a story and recall events.
  
• Identify parts of a book and conveying text awareness.
  
• Speak clearly and in complete sentences.
  
• Identify likenesses and differences in pictures, letters and words.
  
• Identify rhyming words.
  
• Understand sound/letter relationships.
  
• Discuss details of an illustration.

Writing

• Write first and last name.
  
• Copy a simple sentence.
  
• Write upper and lower case letters of the alphabet.
  
• Use letter-like shapes, symbols and words to convey meaning.
  
• Use a variety of art materials to explore and express ideas.

Math

• Name numerals 0-25 in random order.
  
• Name and describe circle, square, rectangle and triangle.
  
• Group objects by size, shape, color, etc.
  
• Count 30 objects.
  
• Recognize, create and complete patterns.
  
• Show understanding of number and quantity.
  
• Write numerals 0-20.

Physical Development

• Move with balance and control.
  
• Can tie, button and snap.
  
• Perform motor tasks (holding a pencil/cutting with scissors).