This publication covers a number of topics relevant to planning kindergarten programs in the state of Iowa. These are: (1) goals and objectives; (2) developmental characteristics (physical, social/emotional, and intellectual) of kindergarten children and the implications of these characteristics for teachers; (3) aspects of the kindergarten curriculum (the arts, language arts, mathematics, physical education, science and social studies); (4) considerations in the educational environment; (5) health considerations; (6) indicators of children with special needs; (7) educational standards as specified by the Code of Iowa; and (8) program evaluation. (Author/SS)