Free Parent Guide
K

What Should a Kindergartener Know?

A practical skills checklist, a five-day learning routine, and free resources to help your kindergartner build a strong foundation.

Kindergarten Skills Checklist

Key skills your kindergartner should be building across all subject areas.

Reading & Language Arts

  • Recognize and name all 26 letters (upper and lowercase)
  • Identify beginning sounds in words
  • Read and write 20+ sight words
  • Retell a simple story with a beginning, middle, and end
  • Hold a pencil correctly and write first name

Math

  • Count to 100 by 1s and 10s
  • Count and write numbers 0–20
  • Compare groups using more, less, and equal
  • Identify and sort 2D shapes (circle, square, triangle, rectangle)
  • Add and subtract within 10

Science

  • Observe and describe objects using the five senses
  • Identify basic weather patterns and seasons
  • Sort living and non-living things
  • Ask questions and make simple predictions

Social Studies

  • Identify family roles and community helpers
  • Understand classroom and community rules
  • Recognize basic map symbols (home, school, park)
  • Name the days of the week and months of the year

Social-Emotional

  • Name and express basic emotions
  • Take turns and share with peers
  • Follow 2–3 step directions
  • Practice calming strategies when upset

Five-Day Learning Routine

A simple weekly rhythm to keep kindergarten learning consistent and fun.

Mo

Reading & Phonics

Letter sound practice + sight word flash cards

Tu

Math

Counting activities + number writing 0–10

We

Science

Hands-on observation activity or nature walk

Th

Writing

Sentence frames + drawing to match words

Fr

Review & Play

Games, puzzles, or free choice from the week

Free Kindergarten Resources

Browse worksheets, activity packs, and lesson planners built specifically for kindergarten learners.