A new survey of kindergarten teachers in the United States and Canada has identified 105 skills and concepts children should learn before starting school.
For example, children entering kindergarten should be able to recite their names and telephone numbers, know how to tie their shoes, be able to stay away from their parents for two hours or more, and know proper toilet habits, according to at least 75 percent of the more than 3,000 teachers responding to the survey.
Children also should have developed certain “attitudinal concepts,’' such as self confidence, reasonable self-control, sharing, and an enjoyment of learning, the teachers said.
Keith Osborn, a professor of child development and education at the University of Georgia, directed the survey. The results were released last month.
World Book Inc., a major sponsor of the project, has developed a home “learning readiness’’ program for young children based on the study.
A pamphlet containing the findings can be obtained by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope (39 cents in postage) to World Book Inc., 510 Merchandise Mart Plaza, Mail Station 99, Chicago, Ill. 60654.
