Preparing Parents for Preschool
Ideas to Make the Move to Preschool an Easy One for Parents and Kids
For many children, preschool is the start of an exciting adventure with new friends, activities and life lessons. Parents or guardians however, may find that giving their children the chance to explore and grow is harder than they expected.
Plan Ahead for Preschool
Most parents spend a lot of time preparing their child for preschool, but don't think about their own feelings. For some parents, preschool will the be the first time their children have ever been left in another person's care on a regular basis.
But, there are some things parents can do to insure they are comfortable sending their child to preschool.
- Check out the preschool to make sure the teachers are caring, responsible and trustworthy.
- Watch to see how the instructors interact with the children.
- Make sure there is plenty of time to find the right school: Most programs start accepting students in February or March for the fall session, according to preschoolerstoday.com.
Practice Leaving Kids with Others
Many parents, moms especially, have a tough time leaving their children in the care of others, adds preschoolerstoday.com. But, just as children must practice saying the alphabet or tying their shoes, parents should also practice leaving their kids with someone else, even for just a little while.
It can be good for both the parents and children to have some away from each other. Spending some time apart before preschool starts will help lessen feelings of anxiety.
Other Helpful Tips for Parents from preschoolerstoday.com
- Talk to other parents about their experiences making the transition to preschool.
- Look at all the options, including the different days and times preschool sessions are offered, to find the best fit for your family.
- Celebrate preschool as a special day in your family's life, rather than feeling sad.
- Be positive: If parents are excited about preschool and take the change well, chances are their child will too.
- Participate in preschool parent groups or volunteer in class.
- Use the time your child is in preschool to do something for yourself like reading, shopping, or taking a nap.
More Preschool Information
Scholastic.com offers many more helpful tips to make the move to preschool an easy one. The website includes information on the types of subjects taught at preschool, how to find the right program and more ways to help kids adjust.
The site also offers an interactive schedule to keep preschool planning on track and a quiz to help parents decide whether their child is ready for preschool.
In the end, taking the time to prepare and learn about preschool can insure that parents, and their children, will have an enjoyable experience once classes start.
Preschool and Parents
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