Early Childhood Education
Kindergarten Corner
Illinois Early Learning Standards for Kindergarten
The Illinois Early Learning Standards for Kindergarten are available in hard copy by attending a training offered through the Illinois Resource Center. You will find up-to-date information concerning trainings at http://thecenterweb.org/ then go to Early Childhood. Kindergarten teachers are strongly encouraged to attend a training. The training involves learning the history of the standards, why we have standards, exploration of how the standards should be used, and on sharing the standards document with others such as families and community partners. You may download a copy of the standards, benchmark cards, and participating districts at the following links.
- Illinois Early Learning Standards for Kindergarten
- Kindergarten Benchmarks – Cards for Ring
- Participating Schools Districts and Programs
Kindergarten Data
Illinois School Report Card 2006-2007 School Year |
|
| K-Schedule | Schools |
| All day | 1347 |
| Half day | 673 |
| All day and Half day | 234 |
| Total | 2254 |
| K-Enrollment | Numbers |
| All day enrollment | 83,425 |
| Half day enrollment | 64,015 |
| Total Kindergarten Enrollment | 147,440 |
Prekindergarten to Kindergarten Transition Resources
The transition to kindergarten from prekindergarten is an exciting time for 5 year olds. Educators today are developing transition activities to help children and families as they take this important step. Kindergarten teachers and prekindergarten teachers are both a critical part of a successful transition. Both teachers work with parents and children to assure questions are answered, children are registered, and the transition flows smoothly.
- Sample flyer from a Kindergarten Readiness Fair sponsored by the Rock Island Regional Office of Education and partners
- Sample Transition Plan
- The Kindergarten Connection
A national survey of public school kindergarten teachers indicates that very few teachers consider specific skills such as knowing the alphabet or being able to count to 20 critical for kindergarten entry. To see what skills are considered critical go to the complete manuscript at: The Kindergarten Connection
- Transition Tip Sheets
Tip sheets include: Transition: What is it and why is it important?; First Steps (the year before kindergarten); Entry Requirements (how to fulfill them); Before the first day (for parents); Before the first day (for children)
To see these and additional tip sheets go to: Transition Tip Sheets - Countdown to Kindergarten
Countdown to Kindergarten engages families, educators and the community in a citywide effort to enhance early learning opportunities and to support the transition into kindergarten. For the complete manuscript go to Countdown to Kindergarten .
Kindergarten Chatter
Network with your colleagues on the new Kindergarten Chatter discussion board. Discuss current issues and practices concerning Kindergarten. Kindergarten Standards Field test participants are already registered to participate. Others may register by going to the Kindergarten Chatter site.
Kindergarten Experts
- Kathy Barclay—Literacy
- Sallee Beneke—Calendar Time
- Judy Harris Helm—Implementing Learning Standards
- Lilian Gonshaw Katz—Learning Goals
- Samuel J. Meisels – Accountability
- Mirian Trehearne—Phonological Awareness
Resources
- Listing of Full Day Kindergarten Programs
- Full-Day or Half-Day Kindergarten?
- Frequently Asked Questions about Kindergarten
NAEYC Articles
- Why We Care About the K in K-12
- Top Ten Signs of a Good Kindergarten Classroom
- Kindergarten for Young Children with Disabilities
- Across the Nation - State Kindergarten Policies
