What Kindergarteners Need to Know

I thought that this article written about the State Standards for Kindergartners was really interesting. This helped with understanding what the state is trying to do with each grade level. They started off with preschool standards and they are working their way up, and it is great that they are taking their time and thinking about the interests and about what is best for the children.
I think that having the state standards is helpful for teachers, in order for them to include various subjects into their lesson. I also understand that some teachers may be concerned about it taking away some of their creative lessons, but I feel that this is not true. you can still be creative with a lesson while including some state standards.
When I read about the Kindergarten standards which included, language arts, math, science, social science, physical development and health, fine arts, foreign language and social/emotional development; it reminded me of the Montessori schools. This is because of the fact that in Montessori schools, they focus more on the social/emotional, and foreign language skills a little more than the public schools. I also thought it was interesting to read the last part that talked about the children tearing flash lights apart to explore and use their senses. It is great to allow children to expand their knowledge through observing hands on. I feel that these standards are valuable to any classroom.