Kindergarten is an important year for children as they learn many new concepts and skills. Here are some of the things that kindergarteners should know:

Academic Skills:

• Recognize and name basic shapes: square, circle, triangle, and rectangle
• Recognize and name numbers 1-10, even when they are out of order
• Count to 20
• Count 10 objects, pointing to each one as they count
• Say or sing the alphabet
• Recognize the letters of the alphabet, both uppercase and lowercase (even out of order)
• Write their first name using upper- and lowercase letters

Social and Emotional Skills:

• Be confident and ready to separate from parents
• Be able to listen and follow 2-3 step directions
• Be able to solve problems without aggression
• Share materials, such as crayons and blocks
• Know the eight basic colors: red, yellow, blue, green, orange, black, white, and pink
• Retell simple stories in sequence

Other Skills:

• Dress themselves, including putting on their coat and zipping it up
• Tie their shoes
• Cut along a line with scissors
• Hold a crayon or pencil for writing

It is important to note that these skills may vary depending on the state and school district. Parents can check with their childs school to find out specific requirements. Parents can also support their childs learning by reading to them daily, encouraging them to ask questions, and modeling problem-solving and other skills.