Written by: Experienced Education Specialist
Honorary Advisor of the Association of Careers Masters and Guidance Masters, Mr. Peter Chiu Wing Tak
A parent asked me what questions are essential in a kindergarten interview. The answer is: “There are at least seven essential questions!” Why are these seven questions essential? Because toddlers over two years old only know how to answer these questions, and they will be speechless if asked deeper questions. Here are the seven types of questions:
- What is your name?
(Type of question: Self-awareness)
Suggested answer: My name is Chan Siu Ming.
Key point: Answer in full sentences, with a subject and a verb; it is polite to answer in full sentences, just answering “Chan Siu Ming” is impolite, so be careful.
- Who brought you to the exam?
(Type of question: Parent-child relationship)
Suggested answer: My mom and dad brought me here.
Key point: It is best if both parents come. Having a domestic helper, grandmother, or grandfather bring the child may be less favorable.
- Where do your mom and dad take you to play on holidays?
(Type of question: Parent-child activities)
Suggested answer: Mom and dad take me to the park, beach (in summer), farm, science museum, planetarium, library.
Key point: It is advisable to take children to places they seldom visit on weekdays, preferably places that involve nature and are intellectually stimulating.
- The teacher picks up an apple and asks: “What is this?”
(Type of question: Cognitive)
Suggested answer: “This is an apple.” You can also add, “I like eating apples.”
Key point: Cognitive questions can cover anything, such as asking about stationery, transportation, etc., besides fruits.
- Pass the orange on the table to your mom.
(Type of question: Ability to follow commands)
Suggested answer: “Okay.” Immediately hand the orange to mom standing behind.
Key point: Commands should be executed immediately without hesitation.
- Thread the string through the hole in the bead.
(Type of question: Fine motor skills)
Suggested answer: “Okay.” Act immediately, try again if not successful.
Key point: Never give up until successful. Avoid giving up without trying.
- Before the interview ends, the principal sticks a sticker on the candidate’s lapel.
(Type of question: Reaction to unexpected situations)
Suggested answer: “Thank you, teacher, thank you, principal;” then say “Goodbye, teacher, goodbye, principal!”
Key point: Always express thanks first, then say goodbye. Both are essential!