Preschool is an exciting new experience for both you and your child. However, it can cause some hesitation and questions.
Preparing your preschooler
- Begin reading books about school a couple months before it begins. Talk about the story and encourage your child to ask questions.
- Play school by taking turns being the teacher and the student. Act out scenarios by role-playing. This gives your child an idea of what to expect.
Familiarize your child
- Visit the classroom before school starts to ease the fears of unfamiliar territory.
- Meet the teacher and be sure to ask questions.
- Let your child know it is OK to be nervous. This is a good chance for you to gauge how your child adapts to new situations, people and places.
Preschool countdown
- Have your child pick out his or her own backpack for school. This will give your child a sense of control and excitement that school is starting soon.
- Put your child’s name on his or her backpack, lunch box, blanket, jacket, shoes, etc.
- Let your child choose an outfit to wear on the first day. It is a good idea to do this the night before so you are not in a hurry in the morning.
- Be in bed at a certain time and get enough sleep to be ready for “school.”
- Wake up early and eat a good breakfast.
What to expect
- Separation anxiety. The truth is that separation anxiety can come in stages depending on your child’s temperament. Taking your child from a familiar place and dropping him or her off in unfamiliar place can raise an anxious and overwhelming feeling.
- Use a “goodbye routine.” It could be a “secret handshake” or wave goodbye out the window as you leave. Avoid sticking around too long as your child will begin to expect your presence for a certain time each morning.
- Preschool provides your child with exposure to new learning opportunities and independence as well as peer interactions. If your child is used to being home with you or at a home day care, this gives your child a chance to gain his or her independence, be around his or her peers and build social skills.
Preschool can be a frightening time but also a very exciting time for both you and your child. Children love to learn, and preschool is the perfect place for that.
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Posted In Back to School, Children's, Parenting
