Get Ready for Kindergarten
Getting ready for kindergarten is about more than learning letters and numbers. Children are also building the social, emotional, and physical skills that help them feel confident and independent at school. Explore simple activities and resources you can use at home to help your child practice important skills and prepare for their first day.
Preparing for Kindergarten
Hear from an NHA® partner-school principal as she shares practical ways to help your child prepare for kindergarten. From easing first-day nerves to building helpful routines, these simple tips can help make the transition to school a little easier.
Kindergarten Readiness
Helping Your Child Get Ready
Social & Emotional Skills
Help your child practice skills like listening, following directions, taking turns, communicating with others, and becoming more independent.
Reading Readiness
Build early reading skills by helping your child recognize letters and sounds, listen for rhyming words, and develop a love of books and reading.
Math Readiness
Practice early math skills through counting, recognizing numbers and shapes, comparing objects, and noticing patterns in everyday life.
Movement Milestones
Help your child build the coordination and motor skills they use at school, from running and jumping to holding a pencil, using scissors, and getting dressed.
Getting Started
Ready for the Next Step?
Getting ready for kindergarten starts with two questions: when can your child begin, and which school is the right fit for your family?
When Can My Child Start Kindergarten?
Kindergarten age requirements vary by state. Use our Kindergarten Calculator to find out when your child may be eligible to start school.
NHA School Finder
NHA serves more than 65,000 students through 100+ tuition-free public charter schools across nine states. Find the NHA school closest to you.