Getting Ready for Preschool: 10 Simple Tips for Parents
Hello to all the amazing parents in Beckenham and beyond! Getting your child ready for preschool is a big step. It can be exciting and a little scary too. Starting preschool helps your child learn and grow in big ways. At Kia Mena Montessori, we understand how you’re feeling and want to help make this a smooth and happy time for you and your child.
Is Your Child Ready for Preschool?
Let’s see if your child is ready for this big step. No fancy test needed—just a few things to look for:
- How your child feels and acts around others: Can they play and share with friends? Do they feel okay in new places?
- Talking about preschool: Chat with your child about what preschool is. Even if they don’t understand everything at first, it helps them get used to the idea.
- Being okay when you’re not there: Does your child stay calm when you’re not close by?
Make a Preschool Routine
Having a routine helps your child feel safe and ready for school. Here are some easy ways to build one:
- Daily schedule: Start waking your child up and getting them ready around the same time every day.
- Morning and bedtime habits: Try using fun songs or stories each day to make mornings and bedtimes easier.
- Practice days: Do a “practice preschool” where you pack a snack, wear the backpack, and go out at preschool time.
Learn Preschool Stuff at Home
Before preschool begins, you can start learning at home:
- Fun with letters and numbers: Use blocks or toys to teach colors, letters, and counting.
- Learn through play: Go on treasure hunts and play games that make your child think and explore.
- Everyday learning: Use trips to the store to count items or name colors. It’s a fun way to learn!
Help Your Child Make Friends
Preschool is a great time to meet new friends. You can help your child by:
- Setting up playdates: Spend time with other kids before preschool starts.
- Sharing and turn-taking: Play games where your child practices being kind and fair.
- Pretend play: Act out a preschool day with stuffed animals to show what it might be like.
Build Strong Communication Skills
Talking and listening are important skills for preschool. Here’s how to help:
- Talk about feelings: Help your child say how they feel, even if it’s with made-up words or funny sounds.
- Listening games: Play fun games that make your child listen and respond, like “Simon Says.”
- Ask about their day: Make it a habit to ask questions about what they did or how they feel.
Help Your Child Feel Good at Preschool
Being in a new place can feel scary. Try these ideas to help your child feel safe and happy:
- Visit the preschool: Show your child the classroom, the toys, and where they will eat and play.
- Go to open days: Join school events so your child can meet teachers and other children.
- Read preschool books: Books like “Llama Llama Misses Mama” or “Maisy Goes to Preschool” help your child feel ready.
Support Their Feelings
It’s normal for kids to be unsure or nervous. You can help them feel better by:
- Talking about emotions: Let your child know it’s okay to feel nervous or excited.
- Offer comfort: Remind them you’ll be back and that preschool is a safe place.
- Bring a favorite toy: A small blanket or stuffed animal can make them feel more secure.
Teach Independence
Little things your child learns to do on their own will help in school:
- Simple self-care: Show your child how to wash their hands, use the toilet, and get dressed on their own.
- Make choices: Give them two snack options or shirts to wear. This builds confidence.
- Play solo: Let your child try quiet activities alone for short times to build focus.
Get the Preschool Bag Ready
Help your child feel ready and organized for school:
- Pack the essentials: Send a water bottle, snacks, extra clothes, and maybe tissues.
- Name everything: Use labels so items don’t get lost or mix up with others.
- Talk about what to take: Go over the items together before each school day.
Make Goodbyes Easier
Leaving mom or dad for school can be tough. Here’s how to help:
- Know the warning signs: Some kids may cry or say they don’t want to go to school.
- Create a goodbye routine: A wave, a hug, or even a secret handshake can make goodbyes special and quick.
- Remind them you’ll be back: Say something like, “I’ll see you after your story time!”
Final Thoughts
Getting ready for preschool is a big step for your child—and for you! Be proud of all your hard work. You’re helping your child grow, learn, and get ready for a great school journey. Looking for more tips or a caring school? Kia Mena Montessori is here to support you along the way.
Want to Learn More?
- Explore helpful parenting tools at naeyc.org
- Read about early learning and child development from Zero to Three
- Check out trusted advice from Verywell Family
- Get tips and resources at PBS Parents
- Discover the benefits of Montessori education
You’ve got this! Preschool is just the beginning of a wonderful adventure. Happy learning!
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