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Special Education Blog

Dec 23, 2009

Posted in: Blog

As we become more involved with the Grant this year, I have spent considerably more time thinking about the transition process for all students entering kindergarten. Students today enter kindergarten with such a wide range of skills and experiences. We clearly have our work cut out for us when we think about trying to bring all those skills along to more similar levels by the end of that kindergarten year. Experience shows us that students are more successful when they know how to “wait,” take turns, sit and listen, and play with friends. We call these skills “ready to learn” skills. With the holiday season upon us and thoughts of gift-giving, some of the old, simple ideas for creative play continue to be the best suggestions to help children develop these “ready to learn skills.”

Children should have opportunities to explore their worlds, run and play outdoors. Swinging is a wonderful activity to help children develop sensory skills. Building a snow fort can help focus attention to a task.  Shoveling helps a child with balance. Indoors - crayons, markers and child safe scissors help children begin to develop fine motor skills. Creating with Play dough is another way to get the fingers moving. Making cookies or letting children help with simple cooking projects teaches them to help, to wait, to take turns, and share. Try to remember that keeping toys and gifts simple can help reduce family stress and help your children start on a good foundation for school.

Have a Happy Holiday and remember to keep it simple.

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