First of all, it is always important to remember that all children develop at their own pace and at their own time. Children are at all sorts of developmental levels when they begin Kindergarten. This is only the VERY beginning of school. Also, many boys develop at a slower pace then many girls in reading and in writing. I wouldn't worry too much about your son not being able to say his alphabet, because he is still young. I would however, talk to his teacher during the first week of school and express your worries. This way, he/she will be able to keep an eye on this issue. If your son knows his alphabet, it will most likely come out in a school environment (pre-school is quite different than Kindergarten). If he does not, your son's teacher can teach him. You can also do extra work with him at home. Just monitor your son's progress and IF there is a problem, you can catch it on time in order to get him some help. The school probably has several resources which can if accessed, if needed. Send your child off on Friday to Kindergarten with a positive outlook. Keep an eye on his progress and I am sure that everything will be alright. I wish your son good luck in his new school year.

First of all, it is important to ensure that elementary school children get enough sleep during the school week (although, I am aware that this is sometimes easier said than done). This gives them more energy through out the day; before and after school. Also, it is imperative that young kids get balanced meals through out the day, so that they have enough energy to focus on the task at hand. I have found it helpful to give children a healthy snack when they get home from school, such as fruit, vegetable or a sandwich so that they can have a small break after a long school day. This also avoids children complaining about being hungry and enables them to focus on homework.

A quiet and neat individual work space with all the essential work tools (pencils, eraser, ruler, crayons etc..), enables them to begin their work immediately. Setting a routine with your children that they are to begin their homework at the same time each day (e.g., at 4:00 p.m.), gives them good work habits. Another helpful tool, is telling them that they are to complete their homework first and then they can engage in the "fun stuff" later. This way they get the work over with and they have something "fun" to look forward to (e.g., TV, playing outside, playing games etc...). Setting a homework regime for your children is crucial in order for them to develop healthy work habits for now as well as for their continuing education.