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Back to School Checklists and Advice

At LeapFrog, we’re focused on helping kids reach their full potential. Whether your child is starting preschool, kindergarten or grade school, our expert advice will help you kick off a great school year.

Ready or Not?

Check your child’s school readiness with our grade-by-grade skill checklists.

preschool girl

Many preschool teachers agree that a child's preschool readiness depends more on her individual personality and temperament—a combination of mental, physical and emotional traits—than her so-called "academic" abilities. Even so, our developmental checklist can help you and your child get ready for this big step.
Preschool Skills Checklist >

Preschool Skills Checklist  Print PDF

kindergarten boy

Is your child ready for kindergarten? Although each child is unique and develops at his or her own pace, most educators and developmental experts agree upon a certain set of skills as essential tools for further development and achievement in school. Here’s a checklist of the developmental skills children need exposure to and knowledge of before they enter kindergarten.
Kindergarten Skills Checklist >

Kindergarten Skills Checklist  Print PDF

first grade girl

Is your child ready for first grade? As you look through this checklist of essential developmental skills children need before they enter first grade, please keep in mind that young children need continued opportunities to attain any new skill; a “one-shot” approach to teaching is not sufficient for building a strong base of attitudes, aptitudes and abilities.
First Grade Skills Checklist >

First Grade Skills Checklist  Print PDF

second grade boy

Success in second grade requires children to be much more independent learners than they were in first grade. A child's readiness is a combination of age, individual growth and experiences; you can help by providing activities that are interesting and fun.
Second Grade Skills Checklist >

Second Grade Skills Checklist  Print PDF

Expert Advice

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10 Things Kindergarten Teachers Wish Parents Knew
Kindergarten teacher Shelby Moore shares tips and advice to help parents survive the first day—and the first year—of school.

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Q&A: Is My Toddler Ready for Preschool?
When is a child really ready for preschool? Dr. Kyle Pruett says your child's readiness depends on his personality.

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School Transitions
New schools mean big changes, which can be stressful for young kids. Preparing ahead of time helps children accept change as a challenge. 

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Back to School... Ready or Not?
Starting school again can make some children anxious. While a few butterflies can be healthy, your role is to boost his confidence so he starts the year off right.

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Starting School with Special Needs
Parents of students with special needs may face individual challenges and concerns. Here are tips for a successful school start.

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Are You Up for School?
With lazy summer days coming to a close, use these suggestions to reestablish your child's morning and evening routines.

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Dealing with Dawdlers
Parents of school-age children rate school mornings as one of the most stressful times of the week. Discover reasons why some kids dawdle and tips for getting them out of the house on time.

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Parent Involvement for Working Parents
If you're a working parent, staying connected to your children’s school life can be challenging. Here are some ideas for ways to fit in school involvement around your work schedule.

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Class Dad: Making a Difference in Your Child's Education
The research is clear: Parent involvement makes a positive impact on the quality of our schools. Start the school year off right by making a commitment to participate in the classroom.

 

Practice Printables

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Back-to-School Coloring Pages
Get excited for school with these fun school-themed coloring sheets from our friends at RoseArt.

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Math is Everywhere!
Join Tad and Lily on an exciting educational adventure! Encourage your child to find the examples of math on this coloring page.

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Letter Factory Coloring Book
Join Tad as he learns his letter sounds in the Letter Factory, where Js jump and Ks kick.

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Carnival Marvel
Step right up for learning and fun! Three practice books based on the popular Leapster Kindergarten game introduce math and reading skills.

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Rip's Letter Challenge
Enjoy Rip's alphabet jokes as you practice correct letter formation.

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Rip's Number Challenge
Use your groovy skills to practice writing numbers 0-9.

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Quarter Collectors
This activity will make trips to the store more fun, and it will teach your children about all our American states.

 

MOMS KNOW BEST

Share your best back-to-school tip or a cherished memory of your child's first day.

 

School Readiness Bundles

Enjoy big savings and free shipping on bundles to help build essential school skills for the coming year!

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Preschool

Help toddlers explore books and build confidence as they begin their journey toward academic success.

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Kindergarten

Build confidence and kindergarten readiness with the #1 selling reading system!

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First Grade

Teach 1st graders about the world with these winners of the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Toy Award.

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Second Grade

Get ready for 2nd grade with LeapPad, winner of the 2012 Educational Toy of the Year!

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Tiny Prints Smile for School Supplies Sweepstakes

Share your child’s first day of school photo for a chance to win more than $300 in back to school prizes!

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