What are the behavior expectations in Kindergarten and how to determine if your child is ready for Kindergarten from a behavior perspective.
Expectations:
– Sit for 10 to 20 minutes
-Follow 2 – 3 step directions
-Separate easily from parents
-Communicate thoughts and needs
-Deal with disappointments (not being picked to be first in line, etc.)
-Get along with children and adults (share with peers, when upset use words instead of hitting, etc)
Your child may not be ready for Kindergarten if they have difficulty with these expectations. School will be a place of frustration, instead of a place of joy and comfort. Immature children may struggle with understanding the expectations and may not be able to comprehend the consequences for inappropriate behavior.
Some children show very aggressive behavior such as hitting, screaming, throwing items (chairs, pencils, etc.). Authoritative figures may not intimidate these children. If your child displays overly aggressive behavior, please understand that sending your child to school will not automatically fix the behaviors. It can take months to test and determine a diagnosis for your child.
Be proactive. Consult with your child’s pediatrician about the behavior. Chances are your child will also require outside support or counseling to best meet his or her needs. Having a diagnosis and a support plan in place may allow your child to have a more positive start to the school year. Inform the school of the diagnosis, behavior, and support plan so that it can be implemented.
Be proactive with your child’s school. The parent has the right to request a PPT and meet with the school’s special education team to discuss concerns.