Though teachers don't expect your child to know everything when he enters school, it does help if your child knows basic skills to build on. Ideally, your child should be able to count to a minimum of 10 and identify the numbers by sight. Knowing the alphabet song also aids teachers in teaching your child how to read. Educators advise parents to use every opportunity to teach these skills from going on an outing to the grocery store to reading a bedtime story. You don't need to make learning a flashcard or workbook experience.
Fine motor skills should be developed by the time your child enters kindergarten. These skills include knowing how to hold and write with a pencil, how to use scissors to cut out objects, and how to apply paste to a piece of paper. These skills are used multiple times a day, and if your child doesn't have them mastered, he will likely fall behind.
A large part of schooling is interaction with both teachers and other students. Children are expected to know how to use their language to resolve conflict and to understand the concept of sharing with other children, especially with objects that are limited in number like a specific toy or storybook. He should also know what is and what is not acceptable behavior in social settings, such as hitting, biting or spitting when he gets frustrated or angry.
It's impossible for a teacher to do everything for a child when she has multiple children to look after. Your child should be able to use the bathroom on his own, unfasten snaps and buttons, tie his shoes and follow simple instructions such as, "hang your coat on the hook." Encourage your child to learn how to complete the tasks when she asks for help instead of simply doing them for her.
The willingness to listen and learn new skills and tasks is crucial for the kindergarten environment. Children should be able to sit down and listen to a story or listen attentively when the teacher is giving instructions for a specific task. Spark your child's curiosity by asking him questions and engaging him in whatever you're doing, whether reading a story or walking in the park.