As summer approaches, many parents are planning on registering their children in group activities and sports. It's the time of year for swimming lessons, baseball and soccer games, library reading clubs, craft clubs and day camp activities, to name only a few. Besides providing children with something to do on those long, hot days, it is a great way to help them develop many of the skills they will need for their first year of school.
When it comes to school readiness, social skills are even more important than the ABC's. Children need to feel comfortable being away for a few hours from their parents or people they know. If your child is in daycare or nursery school, he will have already adjusted to the separation. If not, try enrolling your child in an activity of special interest to him. This will give him the opportunity to discover and explore new things - but without parents - for at least a couple of hours.
While he is exploring all these new and exciting things, he is also learning to get along with others. Understanding and being understood, listening to directions and following rules, sharing and taking turns, and using appropriate ways of expressing emotion are all essential skills every child must have for a successful kindergarten year. Summer activity groups are an ideal way for children to perfect these skills and to continue developing in lots of other areas, too.
Sports activities will develop your child's motor skills and help build self-confidence. Throwing and catching a ball, learning soccer skills, playing baseball and swimming are all fun ways to develop good muscle coordination. Craft workshops will teach your child techniques like opening and closing things, using materials like water and paints without spilling, holding pencils and crayons correctly, colouring inside the lines, cutting and gluing. These are all targeted toward developing small movement skills.
As his participation in the outside world increases, so will his sense of independence. This is the perfect time to encourage him to do more things for himself. Going to the bathroom alone and being able to handle the zippers, buttons and snaps on his clothing will not only save him from embarrassing accidents, but it will help him feel more confident about his ability to handle new situations. Even if it means getting up a little earlier, try giving him some choices about what he would like to wear and then allow him to dress himself.
Teach her about healthy foods and show her how to make her own snack or lunch. Spend time together, engage your child in conversation and share simple, everyday activities - maybe tend a small garden together. No matter how independent he may feel, your approval means the world to him so don't forget to tell him what a wonderful job he is doing. By the end of the summer, you and your child will be ready for a super-successful kindergarten year!
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