Schools and child readiness

I read with interest the April 7 guest opinion “Innovation lagging in public schools” (Maia Espinoza). It states the global health crisis has shown that our public school model is outdated.

Today, the public schools have a faulty philosophy of readiness for young children. Today, first-grade curriculum is taught in kindergarten. Second-grade curriculum is taught in first grade and so on.

Many children who are 5 years old entering kindergarten are not ready to sit at desks, read, and do math and language paper work. Children may enter kindergarten the same chronological age, but vary widely in developmental age. Boys especially may be immature and are not ready to sit still for long periods of time. All children need to move.

Kindergarten is a time for learning through play with blocks, manipulatives, science experiments, sand and water play They need to engage in art, music and outdoor exercise and games. It is a time for socialization, creativity and learning to talk to other children and adults. Children learn self-control and that “you are responsible for your own behavior.” If children are pushed into academics too soon, their self-image may be affected and they may act out and later become the “class clown.” Many schools in Europe do not teach reading until the children are 7 years old.

Children should not be forced to read or sent to a “specialist” if they are having trouble reading in kindergarten. The shelf with the books and manipulatives should not be turned to the wall and brought out for a few minutes each day. If the child is ready to read, or do math activities, schools should have the books, manipulatives and activities available to foster the child’s interest and ability. Schools need to be ready for the children and meet the needs of each child.

Nancy Ashworth

Spokane Valley