In my state (and in most, I imagine), the expectations for kindergarten are pretty minimal. Kids don't learn about grammar, and don't learn anything about spelling beyond the basic idea that letters represent sounds. They learn how to correctly print all the letters, and they're encouraged to try to spell words by using knowledge of letter sounds to represent at least the beginning and ending sounds of a word. They're not expected to really read, just learn to recognize some familiar words and develop some phonemic awareness. This page has links to all the Vermont grade level expectations for literacy, if you're interested in more detail.

 

We are doing K/1st grade with my DS (5.5) and we use Explode the Code for Language Arts. I think it encompasses phonics, handwriting, spelling, and grammar all in one. It is very light and fun and my DS enjoys it! I don't think there are any real requirements for K, as PP said they are just learning letters, letters make up words, etc.

 

This totally depends on your child.... a lot of people start things such as reading and writing at this age.

But...a lot of kids just aren't ready for either at Kindy age. (My oldest was not, my youngest is.) That being said, we have had great luck with Explode the Code workbooks and Handwriting Without Tears.