Teachers met with the new kindergartners at Gilbert Park Elementary in 2012 to measure the readiness of every kindergartner for school. (Bruce Ely/The Oregonian) Though I applaud the recognition of ...

Lolo DeLeon presses his brow as he works to answer teacher Lindsay DeFazio's questions about letters on his first day of kindergarten at Gilbert Park Elementary in the David Douglas school district.

Beyond letters and numbers, true preschool readiness hinges on emotional and social skills. Experts emphasize that fostering independence, curiosity, and the ability to navigate feelings prepares ...