Ducklings Early Learning Centers
Your Kindergarten Readiness Checklist: Prepare Your Child for a Successful Start
There comes a moment for every parent when you look at your little one and think, “How did we get here so fast?” One day you’re tying tiny shoes and reading The Very Hungry Caterpillar for the hundredth time — the next, you’re filling out enrollment forms and wondering if your child is truly ready for kindergarten.
It’s a big milestone that can bring up big feelings for you and your child. At Ducklings Early Learning Center, helping your child take that next step with confidence is what we do every day. That’s why we put together this kindergarten readiness checklist: to give you clarity, reassurance, and a gentle reminder that you’re not in this alone.
Is Your Child Ready for Kindergarten?
Kindergarten isn’t just the “next grade.” It’s a whole new world for your child. It brings new faces, new routines, and a classroom that moves at a faster pace. When your child feels prepared for kindergarten, they’ll walk into that big classroom with their head held high. They’ll also be more confident, more curious, and more open to the joys of learning.
That’s what kindergarten readiness is all about. And at Ducklings, we make sure your child is ready academically, socially, and emotionally, so they can thrive from day one.
Your Kindergarten Readiness Checklist
As a parent, you know your child better than anyone. Taking a moment to reflect on their growth can give you a better sense of whether they’re ready for this next big step.
To help you monitor your child’s progress, we’ve created a kindergarten readiness checklist for parents. This checklist is designed to help you track key developmental milestones, so you can celebrate your child’s strengths and identify areas where they’re still growing.
And remember, every child develops at their own pace! Your child doesn’t need to check off every box on this list to be ready for kindergarten. This checklist is meant to help you understand where they are right now and which areas you might need to focus on a little more at home or with your child’s teacher.
Click to download the printable version of our Kindergarten Readiness Checklist — perfect for hanging on the fridge or bringing to your next parent-teacher meeting.
Self-Help Skills
My child…
- Can use the bathroom independently.
- Can put on their coat, shoes, and backpack.
- Opens lunch containers or snack bags.
- Can manage their personal items, such as a jacket or water bottle.
Communication & Language Skills
My child…
- Speaks in complete sentences.
- Can follow complex directions (2–3 steps).
- Can ask for help when they need it.
- Recognizes and can spell or write their name.
Social & Emotional Development
My child…
- Separates from me or other caregivers without major distress.
- Practices taking turns and sharing.
- Knows how to express feelings with words.
- Listens quietly during group activities.
Cognitive & Pre-Academic Skills
My child…
- Recognizes basic colors and shapes, and can identify some letters.
- Can count to 10 or higher.
- Shows curiosity and a desire to learn.
Physical Development
My child…
- Practices gross motor skills like running, jumping, and climbing stairs.
- Practices fine motor skills like holding a pencil, crayon, or scissors.
- Can build with blocks or string beads.
How Ducklings Helps Prepare Your Child for Kindergarten
You don’t have to teach your child these skills alone. That’s what we’re here for!
At Ducklings Early Learning Center, every part of our day is designed to help your child become kindergarten-ready. Through our Here We Grow™ curriculum, your child will have a blast while building foundational skills in language, reading, writing, and math. At the same time, they’ll be developing the social and emotional skills they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond.
Our teachers can help your child:
- Build friendships and navigate big feelings
- Practice independence and responsibility
- Develop literacy and math skills through play
- Gain confidence in their own unique abilities
Most importantly, our teachers are here for you, too. We’re your partners in helping your child prepare for this next big step — and we’re always happy to chat about your child’s progress and provide feedback on their development.
How to Support Kindergarten Readiness at Home
It’s amazing how everyday moments can help your child grow. Here are a few simple ways you can start today to prepare your child for kindergarten:
- Read together every night. Talk about the story, the characters, and what your child thinks will happen next.
- Practice independence. Encourage them to take on small tasks, like dressing themselves or helping set the table.
- Talk about emotions. Help your child identify their emotions and develop coping strategies. For example, “You’re feeling frustrated—what can we do to help?”
- Stick to routines. Regular bedtimes, clean-up songs, and mealtime habits help kids feel safe and confident.
Jumpstart Your Child’s Journey Today
Kindergarten readiness is a journey, and you don’t need to rush to complete the checklist. Your child is growing into exactly who they’re meant to be, and you’re guiding them every step of the way.
We’re here to help your little one take that next step with confidence, joy, and a backpack full of possibilities! Schedule a tour with your nearest Ducklings location to jumpstart their journey.