Knowing the ABCs is not enough. To be prepared for school, children also must be excited and curious about learning and confident that they can succeed (motivational qualities). They must be able to understand the feelings of others, control their own feelings and behaviors, and get along with their peers and teachers (socioemotional skills). Our kindergarten teachers rate these motivational and socio emotional skills as more important to school success than being able to hold a pencil or read. They want children to be ready for learning - to be able to cooperate, follow directions, demonstrate self-control, and "pay attention."

Imaginary play is a notable milestone of this stage. Children begin to name colors and begin to understand simple counting. It\'s important to stimulate child\'s intellectual development by reading aloud to him every day. Kids gradually begin to understand the concept of time.

By age 3, preschoolers know 300 words. That expands to 1,500 words by age 4, and to more words by age 5. Stimulate their language development through reading, talking and asking them questions.

Developing social skills in children prepares them for a lifetime of healthier interactions in all aspects of life. Social skills are an integral part of functioning in society. Displaying good manners, communicating effectively with others, being considerate of the feelings of others and expressing personal needs are all important components of solid social skills. Helping children to develop these important skills requires a different set of strategies in each stage of development.

When children attend school, they have a built-in environment that exposes them to opportunities to interact with others, to share toys and to communicate with others about their feelings and needs.

Children observe and imitate adults. Display good manners & teach them social skills by setting a positive example and greeting people warmly. Speaking respectfully to others in times of conflict will teach children to do the same.

Expose children to effective problem solving techniques. When a conflict occurs between children, intervene to ask how each child is feeling. Encourage children to express their feelings to one another and offer solutions for resolving the conflict.

Teach children to appreciate each other\'s strengths and differences. Provide opportunities for children to display their talents and strengths, and encourage an environment in which children praise one another for strengths and positive performance.