Ages 5–6: Year 1 (US kindergarten)
UK Year 1 · US kindergarten
At this age, children start phonics, early reading and number work, and school days get more structured.
Finding reading and phonics hard?
- Dyslexia Signs of dyslexia in 5 to 10 year olds: an age-by-age checklist
- Dyscalculia Dyscalculia symptoms: signs to look out for by age
- Dyslexia Teach dyslexic kids reading: a guide for ages 5 to 10+
Could it be dyslexia, ADHD or something else?
- Dyslexia Signs of dyslexia in a 6 year old child
- Autism 4 year old autism symptoms: signs when starting school
- ADHD ADD ADHD online test: a parent and teacher checklist
- Dyscalculia Dyscalculia or just behind in maths? When to worry
- Speech and language Speech, language and communication needs: a parent’s guide
Tired, tearful or cross after school?
- Anxiety Separation anxiety: drop-offs, clinginess and tips
- Anxiety Help a child with school worries: free 10-minute course
- ADHD ADHD big feelings and meltdowns: free 10-minute course
How do I talk to the school?
- Dyslexia How to get dyslexia help from teachers
- Speech and language How to get NHS speech and language therapy (UK)
- ADHD 504 plan for ADHD: a parent’s guide (US)
Not a diagnosis. Every child is different. A checklist is a guide, not a diagnosis. If you’re worried, talk to your child’s teacher, SENCo (UK) or school (US), or your doctor.
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