Transition to Kindergarten Parent Guides: What Does a Great Kindergarten Program Look Like?

Kindergarten continues the learning that begins at birth. Kindergartners need to have materials that are fun and exciting.

This may be the first time your child goes to school.

Some things to look for in a kindergarten program:

• Children have a program that is appropriate. This means teaching and materials make sense for the age and needs of all children.
• The number of children to adults is small. This allows the adults to know a child’s abilities and needs.
• Children and parents feel welcomed into the class.
• Children have a class program that supports the needs and abilities for all children.
• Children learn in both large and small groups.
• Children make choices and decisions. Children are supported to start activities.
• Children have both quiet and active times in the program.
• Children have plenty of supplies and materials. There are enough available for the number of children in the class.
• The teacher smiles and is friendly to all the children and parents. The room feels safe, warm and caring.
• The teacher talks with children using a soft or comfortable voice. When the teacher talks to a child she/he gets down to his/her eye level.
• The teacher respects the differences of families. They support the sharing of family cultures.
• The teacher supports parent involvement in the class.
• Sometimes children listen to the teacher’s lessons. Other times the children select where and how they want to spend their learning time.
• The teacher shares with parents what is happening at school. The teacher and family work together to solve problems.
• The room is clean, orderly and welcoming.
• The teacher manages regular childhood behaviors, like sharing and taking turns, so children feel safe and included.