The Cross-curricular Competencies are four interrelated areas containing understandings, values, skills, and processes that are considered important for learning in all areas of study. These competencies reflect the Common Essential Learnings and are intended to be addressed in each area of study at each grade level.

This competency addresses how people make sense of the world around them. Understanding develops by building on what is already known, and by engaging in contextual thinking, creative thinking, and critical reasoning. Play and inquiry in Kindergarten encourage children to explore ideas and possibilities, engage in divergent thinking, and to reflect on their learning.

This competency addresses the ability to reflect upon and know oneself, and act autonomously and collaboratively as required in an interdependent world. It requires the learner to be aware of the natural environment, of social and cultural expectations, and of the possibilities for individual and group accomplishments. Achieving this competency requires understanding, valuing, and caring for oneself; understanding, valuing, and respecting human diversity and human rights and responsibilities; and understanding and valuing social and environmental interdependence and sustainability. Kindergarten children enjoy being able to make choices as part of their growing identity.

This competency addresses a variety of ways to interpret the world and express understanding through words, numbers, images, sounds, movements, and technologies in various situations. Being literate involves applying interrelated knowledge, skills, and strategies to learn and communicate with others. Communication and meaning making, therefore, require the use and understanding of multiple modes of representation. Using various literacies, Kindergarten children will interpret the world and express these understandings.

This competency addresses how people contribute positively to their physical, social, and cultural environments. It requires the ability to contribute to the well-being of self, others, and the natural world, and participate with others in accomplishing shared goals. In Kindergarten, children continue to develop the skills needed to participate actively and responsibly in society. As positive attitudes and values, such as respect, integrity, responsibility, and commitment develop, children's self-efficacy and self-esteem increase, enabling them to make positive contributions within their physical, social, and cultural environments.