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My 5yr old has just started kindergarten. He is already familiar with the classroom setting from his preschool. He is not interested in doing his work. All he wants to do is play. He tells me often that he hates homework. He will sit there for hours just playing with whatever is in arms reach, ex. the table, pencils, paper. I make sure he is away from toys and things of that nature. How do I know if he is ready for school or if he's just being a 5 year old? He stays in his own world all the time. He can play for hours by himself and his belly button! LOL!

Tara Paterson Replied: Dear conscientious mom, I can certainly relate. My youngest son is six and is going into first grade and he sounds similar in nature. I am sure you have heard that boys mature more slowly than girls and a lot of the school's are even considering a five year old boy to be young for kindergarten. If we think back to our younger years, we will remember that kindergarten was all about play and the reality still remains true today whether our school curriculum has changed or not, five year olds want to play. You may be faced with a choice at the end of kindergarten should he struggle, about whether or not you should keep him back, but you may be surprised and find that once he is in the school environment he thrives. As his mother, you know what's best for your child and can make the decision being confident in your instincts about the situation. Whatever decision you make for your son will be with his best interest in mind. Good luck! Tara Paterson, Parent Coach
Posted On 2007-08-20 16:15:17

Stevanne Auerbach Replied: Your five year old is being himself. Every child develops at their own rate. He has experience in preschool and being with other children. Play is the way children learn best and sometimes children don't want to do other activities because its much more fun to play. If he is playing with other children and has no other issues then you might want to just be patient and see how he adjusts. The teacher should be able to help him find activities he will find of interest. Try to sit in and observe as you can. He will discover books and other activities. You should read him a story every day and encourage him to talk to you about the book. Try to sit in and observe as you can. He will discover books and other activities. You should read him a story every day and encourage him to talk to you about the book.
Posted On 2007-08-20 10:30:43