My child is a genius!!!!

It was April 2008. I remember sitting in the lobby of the gymnasium waiting for the assessment lady to return with my son and tell me that he is in fact ready for kindergarten. I felt certain that he was, but I was eager to hear how well he did on his assessment. They came through the door, both beaming. I figured that was a good sign. Her smile was actually bigger than his, and she rushed over to me exclaiming that he scored 100%! He got every single question correct! In fact, she went on to describe him as “an overachiever” who, when asked how high he could count, was forced to stop after reaching 100. I remember thinking, “Oh my goodness! My child is a genius!”
I wish that I could take full credit for this “genius” child of mine. However, I cannot. I must give credit where credit is due. I am so thankful to the Smart Start School Readiness Specialist Program and Denton Wesleyan Child Development Center’s Preschool Program for making sure my son was ready for Kindergarten.
Let me explain further…
From 1998-2000, I worked as an evaluation consultant to the Davidson County Partnership for Children, a nonprofit organization responsible for the disbursement of Smart Start funds in our county. The program I was most impressed with was the School Readiness Program. In fact, I was so impressed with the services available to parents with children ages 0-5 in this area, that when my husband and I decided to relocate, I insisted on moving to Davidson County. I knew our family could benefit from these services. I contacted the School Readiness Specialist (SRS) Coordinator within weeks of moving into our new home. She put me in touch with our SRS, who began visits immediately.
When my son’s pediatrician later suggested that I enroll him in a preschool program to increase his social development, I knew without a doubt which local child development center I would trust. I had evaluated a number of children attending the Denton Wesleyan Child Development Center, all of whom were very impressive. I contacted the Center’s director that same day, and my son began preschool there the next week.
I can honestly say that had it not been for these two programs, my son would NOT have been ready for kindergarten. Not that I would not have worked with him at home to learn his numbers, colors, alphabet and shapes. However, I never would have been aware of what is expected of them when they now enter kindergarten. I had no idea that they should know how to write their name. They should be able to identify the author’s name on a book cover. They should be able to draw a stick person with at least three body parts. His SRS and preschool teacher know what he needs to know. Even better, they know how to teach it to him. Thankfully, the SRS program is set up to pass that knowledge onto me. Therefore, my son appeared to be a “genius” at his kindergarten assessment.
My second son will enter kindergarten next year. I have no doubt that he will be ready.
Thank you School Readiness Specialist Program and Denton Wesleyan Child Development Center.