Early Learning and School Readiness

We understand so much more about young children's learning now than we once did. We used to think in extremes - either that babies were "blobs" who couldn't think or feel, or "blank slates" who could be trained to do anything. Neither is true! Due to advancements in research and brain imaging technology, we now understand the powerful biological tools for learning children are born with (see our HOME PAGE for interesting brain facts), as well as how we should relate to children to make the most of those tools.

Similarly, school readiness used to be thought of as a child's ability to name colors, shapes, letters, and numbers, but we now know it is a much broader idea. Children are ready for school when they can learn successfully in a group setting, and these skills (e.g., emotion regulation, attention span, motivation) develop starting at home.

Importantly, school readiness isn't just about children - it also refers to the readiness of schools and communities to appropriately support children's learning. The state of Colorado has a legislated definition of school readiness.

How do I find out about...

+ Supporting school readiness?
Preparing your child for school starts at birth with creating a nurturing relationship where your child feels comfortable to explore the world. Working with the development of your child, caregivers can provide meaningful experiences in all 5 of the developmental domains. There are many resources and tips to prepare for this transition into kindergarten. Click here for some good background information on promoting school readiness. This website also provides school readiness information and a list of national organizations and state initiatives.

+ Supporting my child's overall learning?
There are everyday ways to encourage early learning that don’t cost a thing like singing songs, sorting laundry and reading traffic signs around town. Here is a fact sheet about how children learn that can help caregivers understand the children they care for.

+ Helping my child succeed in school?
Understanding how to help support your child in school can really make a difference. Here is a list of 20 ways to help your child succeed in school. Being involved in your child’s education is also an important way of supporting your child. Why is it important to get involved in my child’s education?

+ Supporting my child's attempts at reading and writing?
The first step is supporting your child’s attempts at communicating with others. Here are some fact sheets about supporting your child’s writing and learning to read.

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