Effective Early Learning Strategies That Transform Kindergarten Success

As a former kindergarten educator in a high-needs district for 16 years, I discovered effective strategies for cultivating an enthusiasm for learning in my classroom. Most of my students came from homes with limited access to early childhood education. Nearly all my students qualified for free and reduced-price lunch and breakfast, and many were not native-English speakers. Although they had varied language and skill backgrounds, I made it a priority to create an environment where every student could thrive. 

Below are some strategies I used to build a classroom community and get students excited about learning.

Data-Driven Early Learning Instruction Methods

Many of my students entered kindergarten without essential skills such as letter or number recognition, or even familiarity with basic tools like scissors. Most did not attend pre-school, and many had never used a computer or navigated a mouse. 

Because I often had to start from square one with my students, I strived to make the most of every minute. First, I got to know each of them individually so I could meet them where they were. After they took their first i-Ready Assessment, I had valuable data to draw from. Data-driven instruction was central to my practice because it showed precisely what my students knew and didn’t know and where we needed to focus. We talked about their assessment results and set goals together. We discussed how they were going to achieve them and had regular check-ins. I was direct with my students but also kind and encouraging. By making their progress transparent to them, I empowered them to take ownership of their own learning.

Kindergarten Teaching Strategies That Level the Playing Field

Thirty years ago, kindergarten focused on clay and play, but today, the possibilities for learning are much richer. Incorporating discourse into my teaching benefited all students, from those who were just starting out to those who had advanced abilities. 

I encouraged my students to think outside the box and underscored that there wasn’t just one way to approach or solve a problem. By prompting students to articulate their thoughts aloud—in small groups or as a class—and explore various problem-solving methods, they gained a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts. Students used ten frames, manipulatives, their fingers, or a hundreds chart—whatever worked. This flexibility accommodated diverse learning styles and offered essential support for Multilingual Learners with visual aids. 

Building Student Connection through Empathy-Based Teaching

As a child, I couldn’t read until third grade. The transition from phonics to whole language in first grade left me floundering, desperately needing extra time with foundational skills. School became a daily battle, and I dreaded every moment—until my second grade teacher changed everything. She uncovered a love for learning I didn’t know I had, working tirelessly with me after school on reading interventions. Her commitment was transformative; suddenly, I wasn’t just getting by in school, I was thriving. By high school, I was enrolled in AP English. I realized early on that I wanted to be that same inspiration for striving students as she had been for me.

I still have a special place in my heart for students who need support with reading because I’ve been there, and I’m dedicated to helping them find success. I often told them, “I would never give you something I don’t believe you can handle.” This encouragement, combined with challenging yet attainable tasks, fostered their genuine interest in learning. When they encountered a difficult task, I reminded them that this was when they grew the most. 

Early Childhood Education Success through Continuous Growth

Last year, my students achieved a median growth of more than 228 percent from fall to spring on the i-Ready Assessment. While I celebrated this incredible success, I remained dedicated to ongoing growth and improvement as an educator. There’s nothing more rewarding than providing a positive first school experience for kids and watching them flourish. 

Implementing These Strategies in Your Classroom

Whether you're a new teacher or a seasoned educator, these early learning strategies can be adapted to fit your unique classroom context:

• Start with Relationship Building. Invest time in getting to know each student as an individual.
• Use Assessment Data Purposefully. Make data visible and actionable for both you and your students.
• Encourage Multiple Solution Pathways. Allow students to demonstrate understanding in various ways.
• Lead with Empathy. Remember that every student has a unique story and learning journey.
• Maintain a Growth Mindset. Focus on progress rather than perfection.

Learn more about i-Ready Assessment and how it supports early learner success. 

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Additional Resources:
Empowering Childhood Independence
The Importance of Foundational Literacy
A Deeper Approach to Math Practice Adds Up to Big Results