Mastering Order: Preparing Your Child for School Success

As parents and caregivers, we often focus on teaching our children the letters and numbers to prepare them for school. But there are many other skills that sometimes gets overlooked, such as understanding basic order and sequence. From getting dressed in the morning to following instructions in the classroom, the ability to grasp concepts like first, second, and third is a crucial foundation for academic success.

What is school readiness?
Kids are usually five years old when they start kindergarten, but being ready for kindergarten isn't just about age. It's about having strong relationships with caregivers and positive environments to learn starting from the time a baby is born. Families, caregivers, and communities all have a job to do in helping kids grow up healthy and ready for school.

There are many aspects to being “School Ready” and parents and caregivers can begin preparing children from the day they are born through positive interactions, simple conversations, and play. 80% of brain development happens in the first three years of a child’s life so it’s never too early to begin talking, reading, singing, counting, and playing to boost brain development.

But why is mastering order so important? 
Imagine a classroom where children struggle to follow directions or complete tasks in the correct sequence. It's clear that a lack of understanding of basic order can lead to frustration, confusion, and difficulties keeping up with their peers. On the other hand, children who have a solid grasp of sequencing are better equipped to navigate the demands of the classroom environment and succeed academically.

So, how can we as parents and caregivers help our children develop this essential school-ready skill? The good news is that it doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. Here are some easy tips for incorporating language and simple activities into everyday interactions to reinforce the concept of first, second, and third:

By incorporating these simple strategies into what you’re already doing, you can help your child develop a strong foundation in understanding order and sequence, setting them up for success as they embark on their educational journey. Remember, school readiness is about more than just academic knowledge—it's about equipping your child with the skills and confidence they need to thrive in the classroom and beyond.