Six Things Children Learn in Kindergarten

The quality of academic subject matter has been emphasized across the

elementary school platform in recent years. But in kindergarten, the

emphasis on academics is a bit newer. Whether you agree with this

approach or not, the fact is that kindergarten is your child's first

experience of "real" school. Kindergarteners learn lessons in that first year

that are not in the books. These are skills they will take with them into

their subsequent school experience.

Here are things children will learn in kindergarten that you may not have

known about.

1. Paying Attention

In kindergarten, children learn to listen and pay attention to the teacher

and, depending on how the classroom is set up, to pay attention to their

peers.

2. Following Directions

Kindergarten involves following directions. It's essential for the classroom

to run smoothly, so teachers usually make sure it happens. For academic

success, following directions is key.

3.Relationship Skills

When kindergarteners are put in to a classroom together, they learn how

to interact. If your child did not go to preschool, then this may be the first

time he or she is in a group of peers. Relationship skills are important, and

in kindergarten, children learn the basics like cooperation, resolving

conflicts, asking for help, and dealing with social pressure (especially if it

involves feeling pressured to do something the child feels or knows is

wrong).

4. Self-Awareness

A kindergartener begins to learn how he or she feels about things. He

begins to see where his interests and preferences lie, and starts seeing

some strengths and weaknesses. He'll develop favorite activities and

there will be others he doesn't like as well. Hopefully, this self-awareness

will underpin a healthy self-confidence.

5. Making Decisions

Decision-making is a very important life skill, and your child will begin

learning how to make decisions based on realistic consequences. In

kindergarten, children can make decisions based on social norms (which

they are also learning) and respect for others.

6. Social Awareness 

Part of self-awareness for your kindergartener involves social awareness.

He begins to perceive the emotions and sensibilities of others, and

empathy begins to develop. He starts seeing the place of family, school,

and community.