Wondering if your child is ready for kindergarten? It’s easy to focus on ABCs and counting, but I believe the most important readiness skills go far beyond academics.

In this episode, I share the three areas I would prioritize before your child starts kindergarten: independence, social-emotional skills, and a love of learning. I'll explain why these foundational skills matter so much in the classroom and give you practical ways to help your child build confidence before the first day of school.

In this episode, we cover:
• Why kindergarten readiness is about more than academics
• Simple independence skills every child should practice
• The importance of self-advocacy and asking adults for help
• Social-emotional skills that help children thrive in the classroom
• Teaching children to handle disappointment and frustration
• Helping kids build healthy friendships and set boundaries
• The academic skills I recommend focusing on before kindergarten
• Why reading together every day is one of the best things you can do
• How STEAM activities naturally build kindergarten readiness

Featured Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
• Independent Play Guide

Your "Think Like a Kid" Homework This Week:
Instead of asking what your child needs to know for kindergarten, choose one skill they can do more independently this week—whether it's opening a snack, ordering their own meal, asking an adult for help, or cleaning up after an activity.

Recommended Episodes:

• Episode 13: Why You Don't Need to Be a 24/7 Cruise Director
• Episode 12: How to Challenge Your Child Without Overwhelming Them
• Episode 11: Practical Emotional Regulation Techniques That You Can Teach Your Child Today

If you loved this conversation, make sure you're following the show so you never miss an episode or a quick win. And hey, if you're looking for a way to bring this 'think like a kid' energy into your daily learning, check out my STEAM Made Preschool Curriculum: https://stan.store/steammadesimple/p/the-steam-made-simple-preschool. It's the best way to give your child a head start with an educational advantage that actually feels like play.

You can also connect with me on Instagram @STEAMMadeSimple for daily tools, behind-the-scenes stories, and playful learning ideas.