Talking & Reading
- Tells stories about people not present
- Asks and answers simple questions
- Recites familiar poems and songs
- Uses more descriptive words
Be Ready by 5: Age 3 - 4
The following information will help you as you interact with your child from age 3 to 4 and have learning experiences that will not only help them be ready for Kindergarten, but that will help develop a special bond between you and your child!
What to Look For
Connecting & Feeling
- Shows awareness of own emotions and some emotions of others
- Can manage and control feelings with actions and expressions
- Responds in caring ways to the distress of others
- Seeks help from adults when needed
Counting & Measuring
- Touches toys one at a time while an adult counts
- Points to the correct toys when asked questions like “Which one is bigger?”
- Begins to recognize and name numbers like 1-5
- Talks about where things are – “next”, “over”
Playing & Problem Solving
- Completes challenging puzzles or tasks
- Shares excitement when completing tasks
- Asks how or why questions
- Has increasingly complex pretend play, with different roles for everyone
Growing & Developing
- Visits their doctor/pediatrician for a well-visit at age 4
- Receives appropriate vaccinations
Get Them Ready
You can help your child be ready for Kindergarten and beyond by working on skills with them. Here are some helpful and easy ways to engage with your child!
Music is Merry!
- Sing a song to and with your child
- Ask your child to tell stories about past experiences
Play With Others!
- Give your child the chance to play with other children. Point out emotions and feelings
- Coach your child through conflicts
Count Everything!
- Ask your child to count bites as they eat, count steps while they walk, or how many stairs there are
- Play hide and seek with a toy. Encourage your child to find hidden toys
Puzzle Play!
- Offer puzzles to put together
- When your child asks “Why” or “How”, help them find the answer instead of telling them the answer. Ask them to show you how they’re trying to solve a problem, encourage them to keep trying
Additional Things to Consider: Age 3 – 4
Your child is becoming more social. Taking them to storytime at the library or other fun events can be an important way for them to interact and make friends with other kids their age.
Playing outside is a great way to help kids develop motor skills. Kids can explore how to safely take risks at playgrounds, on hikes at local parks, and even in a backyard or grassy area.
Now is the time to make a decision about preschool! At 4 years old, your child is preschool eligible. Finalizing your choice about preschool now will help make sure you have the preschool you want!
Also – make sure you’re familiar with when Kindergarten registration is based on your child’s birthday. Explore your school district schedule and make a plan to ensure you’re ready when registration opens!
Check Eligibility
Fill out our eligibility screener to learn about all the resources you qualify for based on your needs.
Ensuring that every child in Montgomery County, Ohio is healthy and ready for success in Kindergarten and beyond.
