Social Skills Every Child Needs for Kindergarten and Beyond

When sending your child into new social situations, it can be nerve-wracking to think about all the details. Will they be ok? Will they have friends? Can they make it without me? Kindergarten is one area in which parents worry about the most, as it is likely the first time children are on their own (without family) for an entire day, and will be facing new situations which will test their social skills. Therefore, it is important to determine what social skills are important and essential in order for children to thrive in their new environments, and the following skills are recommended for success:

#1: Getting along with peers-Your children should have a basic concept of how to get along with others, especially those in their age group. This is not only important because your child will likely grow up with these children, but it also helps them learn how to build relationships with others that will last them well into adulthood. Remind your children that name-calling is not allowed, and that it will not be tolerated by you or your child's teacher. Encourage your children to be kind to others, so that they will can this skill within the classroom.

#2: Sharing-It is a basic concept, but having the ability to share with others is important at a young age. This helps children understand that other children's feelings and needs are important, and that sharing can help others. For example, this skill is important when playing on the playground, as children need to share equipment with their classmates. If your child is equipped with this skill, it will be easier for them to understand that taking turns is important as well.

#3: Self-control-It is very important that children understand self-control when they are entering kindergarten. Children need to control their noise levels, take turns with other children, and understand that there are appropriate ways to act when in public. Help them practice this skill when in a public setting, like at a grocery store or while eating in a restaurant.

#4: Following directions-It is essential that your children know how to follow basic directions so that they can succeed. Help them by giving them small tasks with a few steps involved, so that they can understand how to follow directions when the teacher is instructing.

#5: Communication-While this may sound like a skill your child may have already mastered, consider the fact that your child will have to speak for themselves when they are in class, at lunch, and on the bus. It is important that your child is able to state his/her wants and needs, so that problems can be solved and that they can express themselves and their feelings. Children should have the basic ability to communicate with their peers and adults.

There are other skills to consider such as staying calm, honesty, and addressing others by their names, but if your children are able to enter kindergarten with the five social skills mentioned above, it is a good place to begin. Your child will learn several new social skills throughout the year, and if you help them practice these skills at home and within the community, you will only help them grow stronger socially and prepare them for their future.