How to Prepare your Child for Preschool
Enrolling your little one in a preschool program can be worrisome and exciting. You are likely to be concerned about the curriculum, security, the safety of your child, and where and what your child will be eating if your perspective preschool of choice provides a meal plan. Other things that may cross your mind might be; how often the restrooms are cleaned, whether or not sick children are allowed to come to school, and what the qualifications of the school’s staff and instructors are.
Once you have chosen a good preschool and completed the enrollment process, you will undoubtedly want to prepare for that first day. Silvana Clark, author of 600 Tips for Early Childhood Directors, suggests to wait about two to three weeks before school starts to begin bringing up the new school to your child, and at that time, do so casually so that you don’t overwhelm your little one.
One of the first things you are going to want to do to prepare your little one for preschool is establish a set bedtime and wake-up schedule. Children learn best when they are well rested and know what to expect. Getting them used to this routine before they begin preschool will help them transition better and prepare mentally for actual school days.
If your child is not accustomed to adhering to a set bedtime and wake-up schedule, you can make it fun for them by incorporating things like:
- Bubble baths or baths with toys they like
- Talking about today’s events
- Reading bedtime stories
- Singing a bedtime song
Waking up in the morning can be difficult for anyone. You can make this easier and more fun for your little one by eating breakfast with them, helping them make their bed, or by rewarding them for getting up and completing their morning tasks. For example, you could create a “Morning Chart” with each task listed and give them a star for that task. Then at the end of the week, reward them for the accumulation of a specific number of stars.
Because nearly all preschools include some form of reading time or reading activity each day, it would be a good idea to set aside time each day for reading activities. This will help build their vocabulary and get them used to the concept of taking a moment to relax and pay attention while you are reading to them.
Plan a trip to the new preschool and let your little one know that you’re taking them to their new school when you’re on your way. Be sure to introduce them to their new teacher and give them time to look around and see what’s going on. If at all possible, try to schedule your visit when class is in session so that she or he is able to experience what a day might be like for them. Walk around the campus and play on the playground – this will help reduce the anxiety associated with going to a new school.
Be prepared for separation anxiety and a few tears during the first few weeks. We know it can be difficult, but one of the most important things you can do in this situation is remain calm and positive. Assure your little one that you will return at the end of the day, and keep your goodbyes short and sweet and know that it will get easier.