Prepping for Preschool

Attending preschool for the first time is a big step in children’s development. Even kids who have been in childcare can struggle with separation anxiety when they start preschool. The primary source of stress for many kids is uncertainty about what to expect, especially not knowing the new rules and routines. You can help them navigate these big emotions by preparing them for preschool a few weeks ahead of time.

In our last blog, we shared 10 practical tips to prepare little ones for voluntary prekindergarten. The list included:

• Teaching your child self-help actions.
• Working on their toilet etiquette.
• Taking them to visit their new school.
• Driving the route.
• Slowly transitioning to an earlier bedtime and morning routine.

You can use these same tips to prepare your child for their new preschool routine.

While these practical tips can help them adjust to their new routine and independence, you may need to do more to prepare them mentally. Below are three activities that can emotionally prepare your child for preschool.

1. Read books about going to school

Stories help us understand the world around us. This is especially true for little kids. Listening to a story about another child attending school can ease their preschool jitters. Here are a few popular options: “Little School” by Beth Norling, “Llama Llama Misses Mama” by Anna Dewdney, and Maisy Goes to Preschool” by Lucy Cousins.

2. Play school at home

Playing pretend or roleplaying is another tool that children use to understand and adjust. Spend some time on the floor with your kid playing preschool with their stuffed animals or dolls. Be sure to include a parent figure dropping their child off at the beginning of school and picking them up after. Acting this out can help ease their anxiety when you leave them at preschool.

3. Pick out a comfort object together

Most preschools allow children to bring a comfort object with them, like a favorite toy or blanket. Instead of picking out that object for them, involve them in the process. Let them know that they will be able to bring along a toy, sippy cup, blanket, or pillow that makes them feel better. Ask them what they would like to bring. Then help them narrow it down if they choose a few options.

After these activities, ask your child how they are feeling about starting preschool. We recommend using an open-ended question. For example: How are you feeling about going to preschool? If they need more prodding, offer both a positive and negative emotion. For example: Are you excited about going to preschool or a little nervous? Offering a couple of options can help them identify their feelings without implying that school is something to be nervous or scared about.

Talk through any negative emotions or worries that they express. Make sure you acknowledge and empathize with their feelings before trying to “fix the problem” or set their minds at ease. Children’s logic is not like ours. You may not be able to explain away your child’s worries. But, comforting them when they express their emotions and making them feel heard can ease their anxiety.

Sending your little one out into the world can be nerve-wracking for them and you. But, the benefits of preschool make it worth it. Preschool is a wonderful learning experience where kids learn many valuable social and emotional skills. At Kids ‘R Kids Avalon Park, preschoolers gain an accelerated foundation for elementary school. We keep their active minds engaged through activities geared for their high energy level and natural curiosity about the world. We hope these practical and creative tips help prepare you and your child for this next milestone.