Most people who do not have children have absolutely no idea how much kindergarten has changed over the years. But the truth of the matter is that kindergarten has changed significantly. Frequently parents who have a child starting kindergarten are absolutely shocked with how different the curriculum is from the days when they were in school. Regardless, times have changed and it is important for parents to realize what is expected of their kindergartner so they can begin preparing and planning for the upcoming school year.

Then
Back when you were in kindergarten you probably had circle time, story time, recess, art, music, playtime, and naptime. You may have actually worked on your alphabet during that time too, but lots of other work was not required of you. Most adults remember their kindergarten as a time of fun and excitement and not a time of learning. But, today things are not the same.

Now
These days kindergarteners know what homework is and they frequently are assigned it. Most kindergarteners learn math, reading, writing, social studies and science as well as an introduction to a second language. The days are broken up with instruction, group time, computer time, and free reading time. The entire day focuses on instruction and helping the child learn and prepare for the first grade. The days of playing and having fun are long gone although todays kindergarteners do get to have their share of fun.

As you can see kindergarten today is probably a lot more like first grade was 15 years ago. Things have changed and they continue to do so. As kids are pushed to do more and more and learn faster kindergarten will continue to become more academic and a whole lot less fun. The sad thing is that most children who are five years old cant concentrate and focus for too long at once. So, the day must be broken up with snack, lunch, recess, art, and other fun activities. If more instruction is included in the day then children may actually fall behind simply because their little minds just are not ready to be full time students.

Posted in Kindergarten

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