Q:  My family moved into the area from China, two months ago.  Our four-year-old does not speak English, and we are worried that he will fall behind when he begins kindergarten next year.  What can we do to help our child prepare for kindergarten?

A:  Transitioning to the education system can be hard for American children whose parents know and understand the system from their own experience.

For a family that is new to American culture and the English language, making a healthy transition to kindergarten requires extra preparation by both parents and children. A few easy tips can make starting school next fall the exciting, happy experience it should be.

·Speak your home language at home. Learning to speak English will help your child succeed in American schools; however, it is very important for your child to have a strong understanding of his/her first language or "home language."

A child learns all of the rules of language in the first five years of life (i.e. basic vocabulary, how to put words together to make sentences, how to put sentences together to communicate ideas, and basic rules of communication).

A strong framework in his/her home language will make it easier to make connections to the new language.

·Get involved in developmentally appropriate English speaking programs.

Exposure to native English speakers, especially to children of the same age, will help your child to learn the basics of the English language while developing his/her social skills.

Learning a new language may seem instinctual or easy for a young child, but like crawling, rolling over, or walking, motivation is key! The need to communicate with other children, "to want to learn," makes the learning process quicker.

In addition, an outgoing personality can be a plus, as risk-taking is important in any new endeavor.

There are many formal and non-formal educational options for young children in the Centre County area. Formal programs such as early care and education programs can also help

your child to learn about American classroom cultures.

For more information about programs in your area, visit the Child Development and Family Council at www.cdfc.org. Non-formal programs, such as playgroups, swimming or dance lessons, etc. can provide a fun and focused outlet. Global Connections' ESL Summer Camp supports English to young children through play. For more information about the camp, contact Global Connections at 814- 863-3927.

·Incorporate activities into play that will prepare your child for school in your home language such as storytelling, reading, counting and sequencing.

For more activity ideas, contact Smart Start Centre County at www.smartstartcc.org or 238-0331 for the "Get Ready, Get Set, Go!" Kindergarten Readiness calendar, as well as other materials.

Most importantly, remember that language conveys culture.

Sharing your home language with your children keeps the roots of your culture strong. Transitioning to a new culture can be intimidating, but with preparation and a supportive social network, you and your child can make the transition a healthy one.