Early Indicators for Successful Kindergartners

(The original source of this document is unknown. It is adapted by Nellie Edge to reflect the Common Core State Standards)

Children entering kindergarten demonstrate a variety of learning behaviors. Behaviors that are indicators of kindergarten success include the following:

Oral Language, Reading, Writing

  • Says his or her first name
  • Follows simple instructions
  • Shares thoughts and opinions
  • Answers simple questions
  • Listens to stories read each day
  • Recites some nursery rhymes
  • Sings simple songs (Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star)
  • Retells a familiar event or story
  • Participates in word play (Donny, Bonny, Lonny)
  • Identifies colors
  • Discusses a favorite story
  • Talks about pictures
  • Pretends to “read” a book
  • Identifies some or all letters in the alphabet, says corresponding sound
  • Writes his or her first name
  • Writes by using scribbling, print-like marks, strings of letters, or words

Mathematics

  • Identifies some shapes
  • Matches objects (socks, shoes, mittens, gloves)
  • Notices similarities and differences
  • Sorts and classifies objects
  • Uses math language (bigger, smaller, tallest, shortest)
  • Plays counting games
  • Counts to 20 and beyond
  • Touches or points at objects when counting
  • Arranges objects by size from tallest to shortest

Social and Emotional

  • Makes choices
  • Takes turns
  • Uses self-help skills (dressing, toileting, eating)
  • Shares with others
  • Uses self-control
  • *Helps with chores at home
  • Begins to demonstrate independence
  • Finishes new tasks
  • Begins to show self-confidence
  • Tries new things
  • Expresses thoughts and feelings

Physical

  • Hops, jumps, gallops, runs, leaps, climbs, balances
  • Throws and catches a ball
  • Alternates feet when walking up steps
  • Buttons and zips
  • Ties shoes
  • Assembles puzzles
  • Uses crayons
  • Demonstrates good pencil grip
*Parents as Partners One of the important things you can do to promote school success is to help your child to be more and more responsible at home: Teach your child to pick up toys, set the table, take care of a pet, clean their room, and help with the household chores…

What information do you share with parents?


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