In most states kindergarten is not mandatory and children may enter first grade as long as they are prepared to do so. However, most parents dont realize that kindergarten is a starting point for socialization, becoming accustomed to the school day, and learning the basics of reading, writing, math, and science. Some parents ask what the difference between 1st grade and kindergarten is anyway. The answer is that 1st grade picks up where kindergarten leaves off. They are not the same grade level and the same information is not repeated. First graders are expected to have a certain level of knowledge in order to begin the coursework for that grade.

Basically, kindergarten teaches children their alphabet, numbers, colors, sounds, shapes, and more. Social skills are developed and improved as well as reading and writing skills. Math is also introduced and basic concepts are taught and learned by the kindergarteners. By the end of the year many kindergarteners can read basic books and most can read simple sentences and write their names, addresses, and more. So, once the kindergartener reaches first grade they will not learn how to write their name anymore because they are already expected to know this. Instead, they will focus on learning new vocabulary and writing it. Eventually small narratives will be written and books will be read. The first grader will also have more difficult math problems to do and will study more science and social studies.

First grade may go over some of the basics taught in kindergarten but it is in no way a repeat of kindergarten. That is why it is so important for young children to attend kindergarten and to learn. By doing this they will prepare themselves for the first grade where academics has a higher focus than it did in kindergarten.

As a parent, if you are still unsure of the differences of kindergarten and first grade head to your nearest primary school and talk to the teachers, ask about the curriculum, and look at the two classrooms. You will immediately see there are some major differences and that your child will benefit significantly by attending kindergarten first and then heading on to the first grade.

Posted in Kindergarten

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