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Entering first grade is one of the most important and exciting transitions in our children's lives. We are with you, with a satchel on our back and butterflies in our hearts.
Children on the verge of first grade love adventures and experiences. They ask endless questions and enjoy challenges. The enjoy thinking and analyzing, are curious and thirsty for new knowledge. As a rule, children of this age are enthusiastic and happy, they have a developed sense of humor, a desire to have fun and enjoy themselves. Most children at this age have a clear opinion about a multitude of subjects and are not ashamed to express it.
At this age, children often have difficulty with failure or with delaying gratification. They have a strong need to receive praise and encouragement, they are driven by the need to succeed on their own and decide on their own, but sometimes get frustrated when they have to make the decision. Many set a high bar for themselves, they want to follow the instructions precisely, and are afraid of mistakes or failures. They look for things they excel at, and things that set them apart. Some of the first graders still have difficulty with transitions, and need preparation in advance for changes.
It is important to remember that each boy and girl has a unique rate of development and abilities. However, if you see difficulties in the listed areas, we can help! Contact the pediatrician or our child development centers, in order to receive advice, diagnosis and treatment if necessary.
The have the ability to follow 2-3 step instructions, understand age-appropriate stories, follow a conversation going on around them. Their speech is understandable, most of the time, although grammatical errors or stuttering are definitely age-appropriate. They are able to tell you a story, answer open questions and hold a conversation.
They understand that words are made up of sounds and that a change in the sound can change the meaning of the word, recognize rhymes, are familiar with at least part of the alphabet, understand that each sound has a letter that represents it, and recognize some written words.
They enjoy "reading" books by skimming and completing information based on the illustrations. Familiar with basic shapes such as square, circle, rectangle and triangle, abie to recognize at least 8 different colors (red, yellow, blue, green, orange, black, white and pink), and show math readiness by counting, and matching quantity to digits.
They are able to write their name and draw tangible pictures. The way they hold the writing instrument is normal or at the very least - efficient. They are able to cut shapes (square and circle) with scissors. They know how to pass, catch and kick a ball in motion. They can run, jump, climb and swing. They enjoy games such as hide and seek, although sometimes they get into trouble when they have to stop suddenly or change direction. At this age they are able to ride a bike, dance, roll and crawl on the floor. They are able to sit and persue a quiet activity for 15-20 minutes in a row.
They are able to create and maintain social relationships, understand that there are different rules at home and in the educational setting, and adjust themselves. They understand social rules such as taking turns, sharing, patience and helping others. The ability to play improves, and they are capable both of joint play according to defined rules and of imaginary play during which the rules are formulated, including the ability for social negotiation and problem solving.
Normal vision is essential in order to allow children to realize their potential.
Hearing problems affect children's verbal and social abilities. If there is even the slightest suspicion of a hearing or speech problem, it is recommended to have a hearing test.
What? What did you say? I can't hear.
It is recommended to see a dentist every six months, for a thorough cleaning, and treatment and early detection of problems.
Dentistry for Infants and Children
If your children have not yet received all the routine vaccinations, it is recommended to do so before entering the first grade
Immunizations and Vaccinations
Ask the pediatrician for a height and weight assessment, in order to make sure that the development and growth are normal, at the expected rate and that their health is good.
At Leumit's child development centers, your children will be able to undergo diagnoses and receive treatments that will help them realize their personal potential and reduce developmental gaps with their peers.
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