Forty percent of children start school unprepared to learn — here’s how you can help

We’ve all had a few moments in life where we’ve felt woefully unprepared. Waking up on the day of a big test, knowing that you didn’t study enough. Underdressing for a formal occasion. Stepping into the car on that first day of driver’s training.

But for children entering kindergarten, being unprepared can mean the difference between graduating at the head of the class and dropping out before high school ends.

Can you imagine what it’s like to be five years old and already feel behind? Watch this video to get an idea:

Forty percent of children in Greater Detroit start kindergarten unprepared to learn. And at United Way for Southeastern Michigan, we know that learning starts the first day of a child’s life — not the first day of school.

We believe the moments between the bib and the backpack make all the difference in preparing our kids for life long success. Together, we can give our kids the right start by connecting more parents with free resources — like developmental screenings, peer networks and help finding quality child care.

Here’s how you can help make it happen:

1. Take the Ages and Stages Questionnaire. This survey is free to Wayne, Oakland and Macomb parents and caregivers thanks to United Way. It helps catch developmental delays early and connects you with resources to help your kids catch up.
2. Share with your friends. Help other parents and caregivers find peer parenting groups, quality childcare and more at BibToBackpack.org.
3. Share this video on Facebook or Twitter.