Does my child have to be able to write?
Basically, children do not have to be able to write before they start school. Many children get to know letters and numbers in kindergarten, some even read and write. This can make it much easier for the child to start school.
At the same time, it can also lead to the children becoming increasingly underchallenged. It is therefore not necessary to teach the child to write before he or she starts school. However, it can help the child to settle in more easily at school and be more fun if letters are introduced to them in a playful way before school. Looking at picture books together with the child and reading them out loud can help develop the child’s vocabulary. The next topic might also be interesting for you: Early diagnosis of dyslexia
Does my child have to be able to calculate?
Mathematics and arithmetic are like a foreign language for children, consisting of numerous symbols – the numbers. Learning to understand mathematics is a long process. Children do not have to be able to solve complicated math problems before they start school.
However, it can be useful for the child in elementary school if he or she has learned numbers beforehand. Understanding numbers and an active approach to numbers makes it easier for the child to do math as he or she develops. A child should be able to count to ten or even more by the time he or she starts school. Dice games, for example, are very good for practicing and understanding numbers and are a lot of fun for most children. This topic could also be interesting for you: Early detection of dyscalculia
Does my child need to be able to dress by himself?
Independence gives the child self-confidence and facilitates many activities in the new school environment. A child should be able to dress and undress by himself before starting school. In principle, most children at school enrollment age have sufficient motor skills to deal with buttons, buckles and zippers.
If one or the other child is too lazy and the parents are too nice, you can practice getting undressed and dressed by yourself before school starts. Jackets and shoes, especially rubber boots or winter boots, are often taken off in front of the classrooms and taking them off and putting them back on can be easily learned by the child at this age. In winter, however, many children need more help.
It is not uncommon for children to wear two sweaters on top of each other, a thick snow suit or complicated hats and gloves. If the children get along well with other children of the same age, the children often help each other. Nevertheless, the children’s certainty that they are able to dress themselves independently is worth its weight in gold. The child feels confident as a “big” child. Especially at the beginning of school it is easier for the child and unpleasant situations in front of the classroom can be avoided.
