The hand muscles are vital for efficient grasp and speed. As the hand develops, the thumb side becomes more skilled in precision while the other side becomes stronger. Try these:

• Stringing or lacing activities
• Using tweezers to pick up small objects like buttons
• Practicing zipping, buttoning, and snapping

Young children begin to learn to write by making approximations on paper in the same way that they make approximations in speech when they first learn to talk. Try these:

• Make a book out of plain white paper for writing about special visits or trips. (It's too young to use lined paper.)
• Create birthday cards with birthday messages for family members.
• Prepare a Drawing/Writing box which includes an assortment of paper, writing tools, and other materials (crayons, colored pencils, markers, scissors, tape, glue, envelopes, stickers)

Mathematics is the development of logical thinking and the ability to see patterns and relationships. Try these:

• Place measuring spoons or cups in order by size.
• Measure his or her height several times a year and record it with tape on a door frame. Compare the growth that has occurred.
• Play board games like Chutes and Ladders and Candy Land.

Get ready to start school! Buy your school supplies (PDF). Put on a big smile! We're looking forward to meeting you at Open House on during the last week before Labor Day weekend. Check the Kings Park calendar for the exact date and time. You'll love kindergarten at Kings Park. We do!