In a noisy classroom, quiet children will find it difficult to make themselves heard! So help your child become comfortable around adults and not scared to ask for help. When you have visitors, ask your child to greet them and answer their questions. When you go shopping, encourage them to ask for things. If you're unsure about what a 3-5 yr-old should already know then the government have compiled a list of the skills that they think children should have before they start school. They are 6 broad areas of learning:
 Personal, Social & Emotional Development Your child will learn to be self-confident, take an interest in things, know what their own needs are, tell the difference between right and wrong, and be able to dress and undress.
Communication, Language & Literacy
Your child will learn to talk confidently and clearly, enjoying stories, songs and poems, hearing and saying sounds, and linking them to the alphabet. They will read and write some familiar words and learn to use a pencil.
Mathematical Development
Your child will develop an understanding of maths through stories, songs, games and imaginative play. They will become comfortable with numbers and with ideas such as 'heavier than' or 'bigger'. They will be aware of shapes and space.
Knowledge & Understanding Of The World Your child will explore and find out about the world around them, asking questions about it. They will build with different materials, know about everyday technology and learn what it is used for. They will find out about past events in their lives and their families' lives. They will find out about different cultures and beliefs.
Physical Development
Your child will learn to move confidently, controlling their body and handling equipment.
Creative Development
Your child will explore colours and shapes, trying out dance, making things, telling stories and making music.
Your child's first day at school is a big day for you but it's an even bigger day for them. So remember NO TEARS in front of them please!
July 2007 |
