Among the most fundamental skills children develop are reading and writing. According to statistics from the National Institute for Literacy, less than 33 percent of children nationwide have preliminary language skills in place when entering kindergarten. These skills include the ability to recognize letters of the alphabet or words in books. In a Department of Education study that evaluated 15 preschool programs, less than half appeared to be effective in developing these skills adequately before kindergarten.
Preschool-age children also begin developing very basic math concepts. Most programs have curricula designed to teach number recognition, as well as counting and grouping skills. In the Department of Education study that looked at 15 participating preschool programs, two programs offered advanced math skill building through child-friendly educational computer programs. Both of these programs were reported to have a positive impact on kindergarten readiness.
Approximately one-third of the 15 preschool programs evaluated in the Department of Education's study indicated a positive correlation between teacher interaction, classroom setting and future kindergarten readiness. Early school experiences are a vital part of developing necessary socialization skills in young children. It is important that children learn how to interact effectively both with alternative adult care-givers and their peers. Programs with nurturing, supportive, positive and stimulating environments pave the way for future learning.