Kindergarten: It Isn't What It Used to Be: Getting Your Child Ready for the Positive Experience of Education

The Golants have written an informative and helpful guide for parents and teachers alike. Parents will gain a better understanding of how and why the kindergarten curriculum has changed from a social focus to one that stresses academic skills. Issues such as readiness, screening, testing, and early reading are addressed in an easy to understand manner. Parents are encouraged to appreciate their child's unique learning style and personality in order to make the kindergarten experience all it should be. Teachers will be happy to know that the Golants understand the difficulties inherent in working with 20 or more small children and helping each one cope and develop to the best of their ability (in addition to helping parents cope with their child's new independence!). Many sections of the book would be helpful to use as a resource during parent conferences or in developing a parent meeting. In addition, much of the information could be incorporated into weekly newsletters or in developing a parent handout at the beginning of the kindergarten year. A book that helps prepare young children and their parents for that all important transition to formal schooling is an important addition to any parent or teacher's library. It's a quick, easy, and informative read on a complex issue and should be helpful to anyone who works or lives with a kindergarten age child.