Kindergarten Social Studies: how to help at home
What your child learns in Kindergarten social studies in the Ontario Curriculum, and simple things to try at home.
The Big Ideas this year
- D19 Identity and Self-Image: Demonstrate a sense of identity and a positive self-image
- D20 Understanding Perspectives and Canadian Identity: Show understanding of the multiple perspectives and diversity among individuals, groups, and communities in Canada, and identify areas of connection
- D21 Self-Confidence: Recognize bias in ideas and develop the self-confidence to stand up for themselves and others against prejudice and discrimination
- D22 People and Communities: Demonstrate an awareness of their surroundings
- D23 Respect and Care for Nature: Demonstrate an understanding of the natural world and the need to care for and respect the environment
Easy ways to practise social studies at home
- Talk about your family, your neighbourhood and the people who help in it.
- Make a simple map of your home or street together.
- Share a family tradition or story and ask your child to share one back.
- Practise taking turns and sharing, and talk about why fairness matters.
What each unit covers
I Am Me
Noticing what we like and are good at, feeling proud of things we have done, and finding words to share our thoughts and experiences.
All About Me
Naming feelings, noticing how we are the same and different, and choosing kind actions so everyone feels respected.
Families
Seeing that families come in many shapes and sizes, growing up from baby to grandparent, family stories and traditions, and helping at home.
We Belong
Seeing that everyone belongs to several groups (family, class, team, community), how each person helps, and respecting ideas that differ from our own.
Fair & Kind
Noticing fair and unfair choices, using kind words, standing up for ourselves and others, and getting a grown-up to help.
Helpers & Rules
Community helpers and places, classroom rules like taking turns, being responsible, and learning that Indigenous peoples were the first people of this land.
Places Near Me
Naming places in the community (library, park, school, hospital), what they are used for, and whether they are natural or built.
Caring for Nature
Thinking about what happens when a local place changes, and simple ways to care for plants, animals, water and the land.
What the report card levels look like at home
- Level 1
- Just getting started with this idea. Short, regular practice with lots of support helps most.
- Level 2
- Understands parts of it and is building confidence. Keep practising the tricky parts.
- Level 3
- Has it! Level 3 is the provincial standard. Mixed review now and then keeps it strong.
- Level 4
- Applies it confidently, even in new or harder situations. Try challenge mode and real-life problems.
Your child’s teacher decides the level on the report card. Read the Ontario report card guide.
Common questions
How can I help my Kindergarten child with social studies?
Talk about your family, your neighbourhood and the people who help in it. Make a simple map of your home or street together. Keep sessions short, about 10 to 15 minutes, and stop on a success.
What does my child learn in Kindergarten social studies in Ontario?
The Ontario Curriculum Kindergarten social studies units include i am me, all about me, families, we belong, fair & kind, helpers & rules.
Free printable Kindergarten social studies practice sheet
Questions from every unit, with an answer key.