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Tips on How to Prepare Your Child for Pre-School:
Since preschool is usually a child’s first school experience; it can be very scary for a 3 or 4 year old. This may be the first time your child is away from you for any length of time.
Prepare your child for separation from you by leaving them for short periods of time to run an errand, go out to dinner, etc. Try leaving them with someone other than a family member. Always reassure your child you are coming back.
Foster their independence by encouraging them to dress themselves, handle their bathroom needs, hang up their own coats, pick up their toys, etc.
Give your child a one step direction and follow through to make sure they do it. Assign them a chore to do each day. Read to them each day and ask a question about the story to be sure they were listening to you.
Involve your child with other children as often as you can. Monitor their play time to be sure they are sharing and behaving appropriately.
Offer your child crayons, paper, child safety scissors, and glue sticks. Let them be creative while supervising so they use the materials appropriately.
Be sure your child gets plenty of rest each night. A well rested child always performs better in school.
Tips on separating from your pre-schooler:
Through many years of teaching I have observed hundreds of students having to separate from their parents for the first time. It has been my experience that the separation is more difficult for the parent than it is for the child.
When leaving your child for the first time at school, always reassure them that you are coming back.
Be sure that they engage with you in saying good-bye. Make eye contact, and perform your usual ritual, albeit a hug, kiss, etc..
If someone other than you is picking up your child, remind them who it will be.
It is very important that you are on time for pick up each school day. Your child needs to feel secure knowing that you are always coming back. Being late for pick up often causes anxiety. The next time they come to school they usually have a difficult time separating from you.
Once your child is in the school, make a quick exit. Hanging around where your child could see you could be detrimental to their adjustment.
Be sure to have the school telephone number handy at all times so you may call the school to check on your child’s adjustment.
Give your child plenty of time to familiarize themselves with their new surroundings. Some children take longer than others to adjust.
Show your child attendance is very important. Never let your child make the decision about whether or not to attend school.
Most of all show your child the confidence you have in the decision you made in sending them to pre-school. Remind them of all the fun they will have and the new friends they will meet. Reassure them that the teachers are always there to comfort and assist them.
Best wishes for a great school year!
