Preschool Prep- The Skills Your Child Needs to Succeed

With summer in full swing, it’s time to start thinking about how to prepare your child for their preschool adventure this fall. Beyond just being able to count to 10 or perfectly recite the ABCs, children entering preschool should have good social skills & the ability to effectively communicate with other children and teachers. If your little one is starting preschool this fall, here are a few tips for helping them get prepared for their new school environment.

 

Tip #1 – Interacting Nicely While Playing

Preschoolers interact & learn with peers. Teachers expect students to understand basic concepts like sharing and taking turns, so prepping your child for social interactions with different personalities is important. Arrange play dates and park outings with a playgroup or friends. It’s also good to let your little one play with other children she doesn’t know well. When you child encounters new faces regularly, she will be better adapted to getting along with future classmates.

Tip #2 – Adapting to a Consistent Routine

Preschool classrooms are a disciplined environment that often follows a strict schedule. Children can no longer play, snack, or rest whenever they want. In order to prep your child for this, set a consistent schedule over the summer. Stick to similar times for meals, naps, snacks, and bedtime. This structure will help your child learn to delay gratification and prepare for a regular school schedule.

Tip #3 – Learning to Focus

Three & four year olds are extremely active and it can be hard for them to stay put and pay attention to anything for more than a few minutes at a time. Preschool activities like circle time will require your child’s attention and focus. Attending regular library story hours is a great way for your child to practice being a part of a group and listening to & following the instructions of an adult / teacher other than yourself. At home, encourage 20 minutes of quiet time where your child can paint, draw, look at books, or put together puzzles to help your child become adept at focusing on a task for more than just a few minutes.

Tip #4 – Overcoming Separation Fears

When a child first begins preschool, the hardest part is often saying good bye to mommy or daddy. Proper preparation over the summer can help ensure that your child won’t be clinging to your leg crying on the first day of school. Parents that work away from home probably have children that are already well adjusted to spending time away from you. However, if this is not the case, arrange to have your child stay at a babysitter’s or family member’s while you run a few errands. Doing this often can reinforce the message that you will always return. After a while, your child will be able to overcome their school separation fears with ease, making it easier for you and them.

Tip #5 – Following Instructions

Even at an early age, teachers expect students to know & understand the classroom rules and follow simple commands such as lining up, sitting in their chairs, or cleaning up after themselves. The best way to practice this is to enforce household rules such as brushing their teeth every night or always placing dirty clothes in the hamper. Even letting your child help with daily activities can help your child learn how to follow instructions. Ask your child to hand you the dish soap when you are doing dishes or to throw away their trash after dinner.

As a parent to an upcoming student, it can be easy to focus on academic achievements but it’s important to remember that social skills & communication are just as important. Here at Kids ‘R’ Kids, we love spending time with new preschool students, helping them to adjust to their new school environment. If you have any questions on what to expect from preschool this fall, contact one of our outstanding child care professionals!