For new parents and parents of young children, arranging your child’s preschool education can be an exciting but scary time. If your child is set to attend preschool for the first time this fall, you and your child may be experiencing a variety of emotions. As your child gets closer to this big transition in life, stress may heighten.
One of the best ways to cope with change and get the whole family excited for this new chapter is to adequately prepare for what lies ahead. This article will address six helpful ways to prepare yourself and your child for the start of preschool, allowing your child to begin their educational development with the necessary tools to get the most out of their experience.
Prepare Now, For A More Enjoyable Experience Later
If your child is about to begin preschool, there may be a lot going on in your mind. To help ease you and your child’s transition, consider different strategies that can aid in preparing your child for preschool. Such practices can provide them with the familiarity and confidence they need to go into their first day of preschool eager and ready to learn.
6 Steps To Prepare Your Child For Preschool
Plan A Visit To Their Preschool
If possible, schedule a visit with your child’s preschool teacher before school starts. This will allow your child to get better acquainted with their teacher and understand what they will be doing while they are at preschool. If there is a class schedule, show it to your child and explain to them what it all means. Show them around their learning quarters to better explain their schedule and give them a reference to what they can expect. Let them see where they will put their personal items, such as their backpack. This will allow them to feel prepared going into their first day and ease them from anxious feelings stemming from the novelty of the situation.
Read Books Related To Preschool
Get them in the right headspace by reading them books about preschool. This will help them become more familiar with the big transition they are about to go through and allow them to have something to relate their feelings and experiences to.
Pretend Play That They Are At Preschool
Similar to reading preschool-related books, playing pretend preschool at home can also help prepare them. Go through a regular preschool day by having them practice hanging up their coat and backpack, sit for a story or group playtime, and have a snack that they may eat during break time. You can also use puppets to role-play and teach them some basic social skills. Primary social skills you may want to address include:
- How to politely get someone’s attention
- How to take turns or wait for a turn
- Sharing with other children and being friendly
Practice Self-Help Skills
Starting preschool is a huge step in your child’s journey to becoming independent. Give them a head start by practicing “grown-up” tasks with them such as:
- Using the toilet
- Washing their hands
- Putting their shoes on
- Eating with utensils
Talk About Their Feelings
Starting preschool is a big transition for your child. Make sure you have lots of communication about any questions or worries they may have. Ask them about how they feel about this big change and acknowledge their fears.
Adjust Their Schedule
Create a consistent routine for your child to help them better adjust to the changes they will be going through. Different ways to create a stable routine include:
Establishing an appropriate bedtime with a calming bedtime routine
Eating dinner as a family
Spending some time outdoors every day, if possible
Eating healthy breakfasts to prepare them for the day ahead
Choose Grey Matter Montessori For Optimal Support
To help your child enter their educational journey, consider different practices that can prepare them for this new experience. Throughout all of the preparation techniques we have provided, ensure your child can express their thoughts and feelings while also understanding the importance of this next step in life.
If you have any further questions or concerns, contact us at 587-707-4739 or visit our website. We understand what you are going through and are prepared to assist you through the entire process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I help my child on the first day of preschool?
A: On the first day, ensure your child has proper clothing and healthy snacks. When you first drop your child off, you can stay with them for 10-15 minutes to help them settle in easier.
Q: What books can I read my child to prepare for preschool?
A: A few preschool related books you can read your child include:
- Maisy Goes To Preschool, by Lucy Cousins
- Llama Llama Misses Mama, by Anna Dewdney
- Little School, by Beth Norling
Q: Do you have summer programs?
A: Yes, we run summer camps in July. Half-day camps run from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Full-day options are also available that run from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 pm.
Check out our summer camps here.
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