Preparing a child for kindergarten can be a daunting task for any parent. Beyond the challenges of managing separation anxiety, some may also try and get their children “up to speed” by teaching them the alphabet or how to count from 1 to 10. For families whose first language is not English there are also language and cultural barriers to contend with. But what are the most important skills on day one? In Portland, Ore., a kindergarten preparedness program offers parents strategies to help prepare their children to hit the ground running. Teacher Donna Shinagawa shares six tips with us.
