As the preschool years come to a close, it’s easy for parents to feel conflicted about the best next step for their child. You know that kindergarten is a critical academic year, but at the same time, you want to preserve your little one’s childhood and ensure they develop an authentic love for learning.

Naturally, you will be exploring several different options for kindergarten to find the best fit for your family. But what should you be looking for? What questions should you ask?  And how do you choose the right learning environment, not only for kindergarten but for the years ahead?

To best answer these questions, let’s take a look at all the ways kindergartners grow throughout this ever-important year. 

Self-discovery is a huge part of the kindergarten experience, and what students learn about themselves is reinforced by the adults and peers around them. This is why it’s so important to have them in a positive environment where a growth mindset is fostered, and where character is emphasized as much as academic performance.

Students in kindergarten develop a sense of belonging and understand that they are a valued part of their school community, with unique strengths and responsibilities that no one else can fulfill the way they can. Kindergartners discover that they are a part of something bigger than themselves, and see the rewards of caring for the world and its people.

As the parent of a kindergartner, you know that their level of curiosity is astounding. It’s natural for them to take notice of peoples’ physical variation, different languages, types of dress, food, and other components of culture. Kindergarten is the prime time to consider how you can prepare your child to thrive in the diverse world they will inherit.

If you are considering dual-language education for your child, know that students who begin in kindergarten have a strong advantage in their ability to become bilingual quickly. At YCIS, our globally focused, dual-language (Mandarin and English) program appropriately challenges children who have heard Mandarin spoken at home, as well as those who have had no exposure to the language.

Take the next step and learn more about our kindergarten program today.