Sometimes it is harder for the parent than it is for the child when he or she is getting ready to start preschool. Parents tend to worry about how their child will do with other children or they are encountering feelings of nostalgia and wishing their child was very young again. However, for the child, going to preschool will require some adjustments too and here are some tips on how to make the transition as easy as possible.
One smart thing is to start talking about the changes that will be happening early on. Young children really have very little sense of time, but adjusting to any change for children will take time. You will want to give your child plenty of time to adjust to the idea of going to school. Explain how the school works and what they should expect to happen during their day at preschool.
Plan more social activities with your child. This is a good idea because it allows your child to get used to being around other children. This will allow him to learn how to cooperate, share and take turns with others and become used to a group setting.
Be positive and let them know what to expect. Do not use sentences like "there is nothing to be afraid of". Talk to him about what he can expect when he goes to school. You might even want to read books about going to school. It is wise to take your child once or twice to visit the teacher and the class so he gets a feel of what it will be like.
If this is the first time that you child will be away from you, assure them that you will be back to get them when the big hand is on the 12 or whatever time it's over. Be firm, don't back down, give them a big kiss and hug and tell them you love them, a high five or whatever works. Don't drag it out as it may upset your child, but don't leave without saying that you will see him later on too.
Plan snuggle time at some point throughout the rest of your day with your child. This reassures them that they are still loved and cared for and that you are not trying to get rid of them. Take time to read to them. This will improve their listening skills and ability to sit still. Nurture their creativity. Have art supplies such as Playdoh, paints, crayons and paper on hand so that the budding artist in them can create.
Create a routine for your child. Make your mornings as easy as possible. Encourage him to get up at a certain time. You can lay his clothes and breakfast items out the night before. The less rushed things are the less hectic it will be. Be sure to put your child to bed at a certain time to allow your child plenty of rest for the next day. Preschool aged children require about 10-12 hours of sleep nightly. So why not take them out and purchase a special alarm clock so they know that when the alarm goes off it is time for school?
Preschool is an exciting time in a child's and parent's life. This is the beginning of school for them and hopefully, the will grow and flourish during these early days of school. This is also an opportune time to find out if they have any sort of learning disabilities. Preschool is bound to be a fun and rewarding experience for your child.
