Starting Kindergarten is a big milestone, but its often been said that ‘real life’ starts in Grade One. Sylvan Learning in Oakville offers some valuable insight into what skill children really need to have a handle on as they move out of Kindergarten and what parents can do to help them get there.
Kindergarten is an important and exciting time for children, but it is also the beginning of their formal education.
While there are specific educational milestones that children typically meet at various stages of this long journey, at Sylvan Learning we recognize that every child learns and develops at their own pace. The Kindergarten learning environment is especially challenging as children are all at different levels, both cognitively and academically. Kindergarten educators try to foster a learning environment that encourages children to develop independence in their language learning. However, with a classroom full of very young students at different stages of development and with varying skill levels, it can be very challenging to ensure that each child is getting the individual attention that they need to be ready for Grade One.
There are two main ways that parents can support their child’s early literacy skills.
1. Regular literacy practice at home. This can be done by setting aside time each day to read with your child, such as before bedtime. Reading aloud models behaviours such as how to hold a book, reading from left to right, and how we use vocal expression when reading. Daily literacy practice can also occur through engaging in fun games during errands, such as playing scavenger hunt or eye spy with letters while grocery shopping or driving. It is easy to do; you simply have your child search for letters or items that start with certain letter sounds as you do your daily activities!
2. Enrolling your child in an individualized and structured early literacy program which can provide the appropriate challenge and support that your child needs to solidify foundational reading skills.
Of all the skills children learn, the one that is fundamental to all other learning is the ability to read and understand. At Sylvan, we take the time to get to know your child and design an academic program that meets their unique reading needs. Our reading program is crafted specifically for each student to allow them the best chance to learn and develop, no matter what their level of development. Whether it is to have a child catch up, strengthen the skills they already have, or to go beyond and challenge the student more, Sylvan can develop a program that focuses on the needs and goals of each child.
As wonderful an adventure as Kindergarten is for children, we need to remember that there is work to be done outside of school. Learning to read is the most fundamental skill that children develop in their early years as learners. Parents should enjoy these early years in their child’s education, but they also have to ensure that their child is receiving the challenges and support they need. If there are any learning issues or challenges that arise early on, parents should seek help from an educational specialist. It may seem like a challenge at times for parents, but there are ways these goals can be met, and Sylvan is here to help!
The Sylvan Learning Centre in Oakville is located at:
481 North Service Road West, Unit A11 | Oakville, Ontario | L6M 2V6
P: 905-469-6353 | www.sylvan2learn.com
Please give Sylvan Learning a call to discuss how we might be able to help your child develop their early reading skills!
