Kindergarten in Alberta: A Handbook for Parents, 2001-2002.

Kindergarten marks a new beginning for parents and their children, and presents challenges for parents as their child makes the transition between home and school. This handbook describes what parents can expect from their child's kindergarten program in Alberta, Canada. The handbook describes how young children learn, how their learning is evaluated, and how parents can be involved in their children's learning. The sections of the handbook discuss: (1) "What are young children like?" focusing on social, physical, intellectual, creative, and emotional development; (2) "What do children learn in Kindergarten?" including English language arts, mathematics, community and environmental awareness, personal and social responsibility, physical skills and well-being, and creative and cultural expression; (3) "How do young children learn?"; (4) "What will you see in the Kindergarten area?"; (5) "How and why is children's learning assessed in Kindergarten?"; (6) "How will Kindergarten meet special needs?"; (7) "How will Kindergarten prepare children for first grade?"; and (8) "How can parents be involved?" The handbook concludes with questions parents may want to ask the teacher and a one-page questionnaire requesting feedback on the handbook. (HTH)