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Kindergarten Readiness Tips- How to Help Your Child Thrive

Kindergarten Readiness Tips- How to Help Your Child Thrive

Mar 26, 2025 | Education

Starting kindergarten is an exciting milestone that marks the beginning of a child’s formal education. However, this transition can feel overwhelming for both children and parents. Preparing your child for kindergarten success involves more than just learning the alphabet—it also includes developing social, emotional, cognitive, and physical skills.

By focusing on key areas of child development, you can ensure your child enters school with confidence and enthusiasm.

Key Takeaways

  • Kindergarten readiness includes academic, social, emotional, and physical skills.
  • Engaging in early learning activities at home can enhance cognitive development.
  • Encouraging independence helps children feel confident in a structured school environment.
  • Establishing a routine before school starts makes the transition smoother.
  • If you have concerns about your child’s development, contact the Pediatric Center at 208-523-3060.

How to Prepare Your Child for Kindergarten

1. Strengthen Early Learning Skills

While formal academics aren’t required before kindergarten, developing early literacy and numeracy skills can provide a strong foundation.

Here are some fun ways to promote learning at home:

  • Read daily – Reading aloud improves vocabulary, listening skills, and imagination.
  • Practice letter recognition – Point out letters in books, signs, and packaging.
  • Encourage counting – Count objects around the house, like snacks, toys, or steps.
  • Sing songs and nursery rhymes – These improve memory and phonemic awareness.
  • Introduce writing tools – Have your child practice drawing, coloring, and tracing letters.

2. Develop Social and Emotional Readiness

In kindergarten, children interact with peers, follow rules, and handle new emotions. Help your child build social-emotional skills by:

  • Practicing sharing and turn-taking – Play simple board games or group activities.
  • Encouraging independence – Allow your child to make small choices, like picking out clothes.
  • Teaching patience and self-regulation – Help them practice waiting their turn in conversations or activities.
  • Identifying emotions – Read books about feelings and discuss different ways to express emotions.

3. Improve Fine and Gross Motor Skills

Fine motor skills help with writing, while gross motor skills aid in physical coordination. Encourage development through:

  • Fine motor activities – Coloring, cutting, using playdough, and buttoning clothes.
  • Gross motor exercises – Running, jumping, skipping, and climbing to strengthen muscles.
  • Hand-eye coordination – Playing catch, stringing beads, and doing puzzles.

4. Encourage Self-Care and Independence

Children in kindergarten are expected to complete basic self-care tasks. Prepare them by practicing:

  • Using the restroom independently (including washing hands).
  • Dressing and undressing (zipping coats, putting on shoes).
  • Eating without assistance (opening lunchboxes, using utensils).
  • Following simple instructions (such as cleaning up toys).

5. Establish a Routine

A predictable routine helps children feel secure and prepared for school life. Before kindergarten starts, implement:

  • A consistent bedtime – Aim for 10–12 hours of sleep each night.
  • A structured morning routine – Get dressed, eat breakfast, and brush teeth at the same time each day.
  • Scheduled learning time – Even short daily activities, like reading or drawing, build focus and learning habits.

6. Foster a Love for Learning

Kindergarten is about exploration and discovery! Encourage a positive attitude toward learning by:

  • Asking open-ended questions – “What do you think will happen next in the story?”
  • Letting your child explore interests – Whether it’s dinosaurs, space, or music, find ways to incorporate learning.
  • Making learning fun – Use games, songs, and hands-on activities to keep engagement high.

Signs Your Child May Need Extra Support

Every child develops at their own pace, but some signs may indicate they need extra help before starting kindergarten. If your child struggles with speech development or has difficulty understanding directions, it may be beneficial to seek guidance. Challenges with fine motor skills, such as holding a crayon or using scissors, can also be a concern. Additionally, extreme separation anxiety or trouble interacting with peers may indicate they need extra social-emotional support. If your child has difficulty following basic routines and transitions, it could be helpful to work on structure and consistency before school starts.

If you have concerns about your child’s developmental milestones, don’t hesitate to seek expert advice. The Pediatric Center is here to support your child’s growth and kindergarten readiness. Call 208-523-3060 to schedule an appointment with our pediatric specialists.

This blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. For personalized health recommendations, please consult your healthcare provider.
The Importance of Reading for Child Development

The Importance of Reading for Child Development

Feb 26, 2025 | Education

The Importance of Reading to Children: Benefits, Tips, and Top Books by Age Group

Reading to children is one of the most valuable gifts parents can offer, fostering cognitive development, language skills, and emotional bonding. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), reading aloud to children from infancy promotes early brain development, strengthens parent-child relationships, and lays the foundation for lifelong learning and literacy. Introducing books at every stage of childhood not only nurtures a love for stories but also equips children with critical life skills.

Key Takeaways:

  • Reading to children enhances cognitive development, language skills, and emotional well-being.
  • Tailor reading materials to each age group to maintain interest and maximize benefits.
  • Encourage reading through interactive books, discussions, and creating a comfortable reading space.
  • Incorporate popular books to teach essential life skills such as empathy, problem-solving, and creativity.

Infants (0-12 Months)

Reading to infants promotes early brain development by enhancing auditory processing and introducing basic language patterns. This stage is crucial for building emotional connections through soothing voices and shared moments. Simple books with high-contrast images and rhythmic text stimulate visual and cognitive growth.

Tips: Use books with bold visuals and repetitive sounds. Engage infants with your voice and expressions.

Popular Book Choices: Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown introduces rhythm and routine, while Black & White by Tana Hoban stimulates visual development with contrasting images.

Toddlers (1-3 Years)

For toddlers, reading supports vocabulary expansion, memory retention, and cognitive development. It encourages curiosity and lays the foundation for speech. Interactive books with textures and flaps keep toddlers engaged while enhancing motor skills and comprehension.

Tips: Use interactive board books with textures, flaps, and sounds. Children love exploring books with their hands, so finding ones with textures to touch or sounds to hear (like animal noises or vehicle sounds) can keep them engaged. Reading aloud with excitement will also make the experience more fun and captivating.

Popular Book Choices: Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr. aids in color recognition and memory, while Where’s Spot? by Eric Hill enhances interactive learning and curiosity.

Preschoolers (3-5 Years)

Reading during preschool years boosts creativity, enriches language, and helps children recognize emotions. It prepares them for school by enhancing listening skills, comprehension, and vocabulary.

Tips: Create a reading routine with a “book of the day” that they can help choose. Let them pick their favorite book, then act out the story together with puppets, props, or costumes to bring the story to life. This will make the experience interactive and something they look forward to.

Popular Book Choices: The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle teaches counting and the days of the week, while If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff introduces cause-and-effect relationships.

Early Elementary (6-8 Years)

Reading at this age improves literacy skills, fosters independent thinking, and enhances focus. Children begin to connect stories to real-life experiences and develop empathy.

Tips: Use books with relatable, easy-to-follow stories and colorful illustrations. Encourage children to “read” the pictures and guess what happens next. You can even make a reading game where they get to be the character and “perform” parts of the book as you read, making the experience more engaging.

Popular Book Choices: Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White teaches friendship and sacrifice, while the Magic Tree House Series by Mary Pope Osborne fosters curiosity about history and adventure.

Upper Elementary (9-12 Years)

At this stage, reading expands imagination, critical thinking, and academic performance. Complex plots and diverse genres encourage exploration and intellectual growth.

Tips: Introduce chapter books or series that relate to their hobbies or favorite genres. Discuss books that have been made into movies and let them compare the two. Offering them options for books in a series can make them more likely to keep reading to find out what happens next, providing a sense of continuity and excitement.

Popular Book Choices: Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling enhances imagination and problem-solving, while Wonder by R.J. Palacio teaches empathy and acceptance.

Teenagers (13-18 Years)

Reading during adolescence fosters critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and academic success. Teens explore complex themes, build vocabulary, and gain diverse perspectives through literature.

Tips: Encourage reading by offering books related to their current passions, whether that’s fantasy, romance, or science fiction. Involve them in book discussions or challenges, like “read a chapter a day” or “read a book and share your favorite quotes.” If they’re into digital content, try e-books or audiobooks as a fun, modern twist on traditional reading.

Popular Book Choices: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins teaches resilience and social awareness, and The Giver by Lois Lowry, which encourages critical thinking about society, individuality, and the importance of memory.

The Pediatric Center is dedicated to supporting your child’s growth and development at every stage, from infancy to adolescence. Our experienced team provides expert guidance, compassionate care, and personalized support to help your child thrive. For any questions about your child’s education, development, or well-being, contact the Pediatric Center at 208-523-3060 today.

This blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. For personalized health recommendations, please consult your healthcare provider.
Reach Out and Read!

Reach Out and Read!

May 16, 2024 | Education, Healthcare

As parents, we often find ourselves navigating a sea of advice and recommendations on how to give our children the best start in life. Amidst this whirlwind, one timeless practice stands out as both simple and profound: reading to our children from a young age. The importance of this act cannot be overstated, as it serves as a cornerstone for their development and sets the stage for a lifetime of learning and exploration.

Stimulating Imagination and Language Development Through Reading

From the earliest days of infancy, reading to your child holds immense benefits. It stimulates their  imagination and lays the groundwork for language development. Even though they may not yet understand the words being spoken, infants benefit from the soothing cadence and rhythm of language, helping them become familiar with its nuances. Remarkably, even the seemingly simple act of handling books contributes to building school readiness in infants.

Reading Together Strengthens Bonds

As children grow, reading together strengthens the bond between parent and child. It provides precious moments of connection and communication, fostering a sense of closeness and security. Through shared stories, parents can open the door to meaningful conversations, encouraging their child’s curiosity about the world around them.

Academic Success and Literacy Skills 

Moreover, the benefits extend far beyond the emotional realm. Studies have shown that children who are read to regularly tend to perform better in school and develop stronger literacy skills. Reading stimulates various areas of brain development, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and comprehension. By immersing themselves in stories, children gain exposure to different perspectives and experiences, fostering empathy and social understanding.

Lasting Impact: Reading Helps Foster Skills for Success

Engaging in language-rich interactions with children is pivotal for their overall development, teaching essential skills such as communication, patience, and literacy. These foundational skills form the bedrock for success in academic pursuits and beyond. 

Additional positive effects of reading together include:

  • Better recognition of sounds and letters
  • Knowledge of a wider range of vocabulary
  • Increased listening skills
  • A deeper understanding of how stories work

When we immerse ourselves in reading with our young ones, we embark on a journey of discovery and growth together. Stories serve as portals to new worlds, sparking curiosity and expanding their understanding of the world around them. The warmth of shared reading moments also provides comfort and security, helping children navigate moments of anxiety while instilling a lifelong love for reading.

Empowering Through Reach Out and Read

At The Pediatric Center, we recognize the profound impact that reading can have on a child’s development. That’s why we’ve embraced the Reach Out and Read program, ensuring that every well-child check from 6 months to 5 years includes the gift of a book. We believe that by instilling a love of reading early on, we can empower children to embrace a future filled with endless possibilities.

Cultivating a Culture of Reading

So, whether it’s a beloved bedtime story or a quiet afternoon spent with a picture book, make reading a cherished part of your daily routine. By sharing the magic of storytelling with your child, you’re not just teaching them to read – you’re giving them the gift of a brighter future. Together, let’s nurture young minds and pave the way for a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive.

If you have any questions about our “Reach Out and Read” program or your child’s health, contact the Pediatric Center for an appointment. At the Pediatric Center, we strive to help children and parents with an exceptional healthcare experience. We offer in-house x-rays as well as extended hours on nights and weekends so we can give you the treatment you need, when you need it. Contact us at our Idaho Falls location at (208) 523-3060 or our Rigby location (208) 745-8927, to set up your appointment. We have a wonderful team of providers available for all of your children’s needs! 

 

 

 

Keeping Kids Safe and Strong During Sports

Keeping Kids Safe and Strong During Sports

Apr 19, 2024 | Education, Healthcare, Safety, Safety Tips

As children dive into the world of sports, it’s natural for parents and coaches to want to see them excel and enjoy the game. However, ensuring their safety and well-being should always be the top priority. Sports injuries can be not only painful but also have long-term consequences, affecting a child’s ability to participate in their favorite activities. Here are some essential tips for preventing sports injuries in kids:

1. Proper Warm-up and Stretching: Before any physical activity, ensure that kids engage in a thorough warm-up routine. This helps prepare their muscles, tendons, and ligaments for the demands of exercise and reduces the risk of strains and sprains. Incorporating dynamic stretches that mimic the movements of the sport can be particularly beneficial.
2. Focus on Technique: Emphasize the importance of proper technique and form in sports training. Teaching children correct movement patterns not only enhances their performance but also reduces the likelihood of overuse injuries and musculoskeletal imbalances.
3. Use Appropriate Gear: Make sure children wear appropriate protective gear for their sport, such as helmets, pads, and supportive footwear. Properly fitting equipment can help prevent head injuries, fractures, and other traumatic injuries.
4. Hydration and Nutrition: Encourage kids to stay hydrated before, during, and after physical activity. Proper hydration supports optimal muscle function and helps regulate body temperature. Additionally, promote a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to fuel their bodies for peak performance and recovery.
5. Listen to Their Bodies: Teach children to listen to their bodies and recognize the signs of fatigue, pain, or discomfort. Encourage them to speak up if something doesn’t feel right and emphasize the importance of rest and recovery when needed.
6. Gradual Progression: Avoid sudden spikes in training intensity or volume. Gradually increase the duration and intensity of workouts to allow the body to adapt and reduce the risk of overuse injuries. Following the 10% rule—where training load is increased by no more than 10% per week—can help prevent overtraining and burnout.
7. Encourage Cross-Training: Encourage children to participate in a variety of sports and activities to promote overall athleticism and reduce the risk of overuse injuries. Cross-training engages different muscle groups and movement patterns, helping prevent imbalances and overuse of specific muscles.
8. Promote Rest and Recovery: Ensure that children have adequate rest days built into their training schedule. Rest is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as preventing overuse injuries. Encourage active recovery activities, such as gentle stretching or low-impact exercises, on rest days.
9. Educate Coaches and Parents: Educate coaches and parents about the importance of injury prevention strategies and proper sportsmanship. Emphasize the value of balanced competition and the long-term health benefits of prioritizing safety over winning at all costs.

By implementing these proactive measures, we can create a safer and more enjoyable sports experience for children, allowing them to pursue their athletic passions while minimizing the risk of injury. Let’s empower our young athletes to play hard, play smart, and stay injury-free for years to come.

If you have any questions about sports injuries or any other health issue, contact the Pediatric Center for an appointment. At the Pediatric Center, we want to give you and your child the best care you can get. We offer in-house x-rays as well as extended hours on nights and weekends so we can give you the treatment you need, when you need it. Contact us at our Idaho Falls location at (208) 523-3060 or our Rigby location (208) 745-8927, to set up your appointment. We have a wonderful team of providers available for all of your children’s needs! 

 

 

 

HPV-What you need to know

HPV-What you need to know

Feb 16, 2024 | Education, Healthcare, Safety, Safety Tips

HPV, or human papillomavirus, is a very common virus that can lead to cancers later in life. HPV is spread through intimate skin-to-skin or sexual contact. It can cause various types of cancers, including cervical, vaginal, vulvar, penile, anal, and cancers of tonsils, base of tongue, and back of throat (oropharyngeal cancer), as well as anogenital warts. In the United States, nearly 42 million people are currently infected with HPV, and about 13 million people, including teens, acquire HPV each year. Almost 36,000 individuals are estimated to be affected by HPV-related cancers annually.

Why get vaccinated against HPV?

HPV vaccination can prevent infection with certain types of the virus. This is crucial because HPV infections are incredibly common, and most people will contract at least one type of HPV at some point. While many HPV infections resolve on their own within two years, some can persist and lead to cancers later in life.

Who should get the HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is routinely recommended for adolescents at 11 or 12 years old to ensure protection before potential exposure to the virus. However, it can be administered as early as age 9 and is recommended for everyone through 26 years of age. 

How well do HPV vaccines work?

HPV vaccines are highly effective, preventing over 90% of HPV-attributable cancers. Since the vaccine’s introduction in 2006, infections with HPV types that cause most HPV cancers and genital warts have dropped 88% among teen girls and 81% among young adult women. Fewer teens and young adults are getting genital warts. HPV vaccination has also reduced the number of cases of precancers of the cervix in young women.

HPV is a prevalent virus with serious health implications, but vaccination offers a powerful defense against its associated cancers and complications. By ensuring vaccination for eligible individuals, we can reduce the burden of HPV-related diseases and work towards a healthier future for all.

If you have any questions about HPV or the HPV vaccine, contact the Pediatric Center. The Pediatric Center is your resource for information and healthcare treatment for infants, children, and teens in Idaho Falls and Rigby. Contact us at our Idaho Falls location at (208) 523-3060 or our Rigby location (208) 745-8927, to set up your appointment.

 

 

 

Check Your Car Seats!

Check Your Car Seats!

Jan 19, 2024 | Education, Healthcare, Road Safety, Safety, Safety Tips

As parents, ensuring the safety of our children is a top priority, especially when it comes to travel. One crucial aspect of child safety on the road is the proper use of car seats. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends keeping children under 2 in a rear-facing car seat. This position provides optimal support for a child’s head, neck, and spine in the event of a crash. Many convertible car seats are designed to accommodate rear-facing for extended periods, providing a safer ride for your little one. Properly securing your child in the car seat is crucial.

Choose the Right Car Seat

The first step in ensuring your child’s safety is selecting the right car seat based on their age, weight, and height. There are different types of car seats, including rear-facing infant seats, convertible seats, and booster seats. Ensure that the harness straps lie flat against your child’s chest and shoulders, and the straps are snug enough that you can’t pinch any excess fabric. The chest clip should be positioned at armpit level to enhance safety. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure the seat is suitable for your child’s specific needs.

Stage 1: Rear-facing car seat for infants and toddlers

A rear-facing car seat has a harness and will protect your child’s head, neck and spine. A 5-point harness gives the best protection for your child. Keep your child in a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible, until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their seat. Your child should continue to ride rear-facing in a convertible or all-in-one seat until they reach the rear-facing size limits for their seat.

Stage 2: Forward-facing car seat for toddlers and preschoolers

Your child will be ready for a forward-facing car seat with a harness when they reach their top height and weight limit allowed for their rear-facing car seat (check the manufacturer’s instructions). A 5-point harness gives the best protection for your child. Use a forward-facing car seat until they are at least 40 pounds. Many seats can be used for children up to 65 pounds.

Stage 3: Booster seat for school-aged children

Once your child outgrows their forward-facing car seat, it is the law that they use a booster seat with a lap and shoulder belt until they are 4 foot 9 inches tall. A booster will raise your child so their lap and shoulder belts fit properly – this will keep them as safe as possible until they are ready for a seat belt. Your child may need to use a booster for many years depending on how quickly they grow. Some children are not ready for a seat belt until they are 12 years old.

Stage 4: Seat belts for older children

Your child can safely ride without a booster seat once all of these steps are met:

  • Child’s back rests against the vehicle seat
  • Child’s knees bend at the edge of the seat
  • Lap belt rests on top of thighs (not the belly)
  • Shoulder belt lies between the neck and shoulder
  • Child does not slouch or play with the seat belt

Correct installation of the car seat is paramount. Whether using the LATCH system or the vehicle’s seat belt, follow the manufacturer’s instructions diligently. Make sure the seat is securely fastened with minimal wiggle room. Car seat safety doesn’t end after installation. Regularly inspect the car seat for any wear and tear, and ensure that it hasn’t expired. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and maintenance to keep the seat in optimal condition.

If your child is younger than 13, they should continue to sit in the back seat. Wearing a seat belt is the law. Set a good example for your children. Your child will be more likely to wear their seat belt during every ride if they see that you and others in the car wear one too. Children learn by observing their parents. Buckle up every time you get in the car, and make it a non-negotiable rule for your family. Instilling good habits from an early age will contribute to a lifetime of safe driving practices.

Investing time and effort into understanding and implementing proper car seat safety measures is a small but significant step in ensuring your child’s well-being on the road. By choosing the right seat, securing your child correctly, and maintaining the seat properly, you play a vital role in creating a safe and secure environment for your little ones during every journey.

If you have any questions about car seat safety, contact the Pediatric Center. The Pediatric Center has been providing comprehensive care for infants, children, and teens in Idaho Falls and Rigby for over 55 years. Contact us at our Idaho Falls location at (208) 523-3060 or our Rigby location (208) 745-8927, to set up your appointment.