Helpful Tips for Getting Your Child Ready for Preschool
Starting preschool is a big and exciting step for your child. At Kia Mena Montessori, we know how important this moment is for families. Parents and kids often feel a mix of happiness, nerves, and curiosity. Whether it’s your first time sending a child to preschool or not, we’re here to help you get ready for the big day!
Below are some easy and fun tips to help you and your little one feel ready for preschool.
Is Your Child Ready for Preschool?
Preschool is a great place for learning, fun, and making new friends. Here are some signs your child might be ready for preschool:
- Playing with others: Can your child share and take turns sometimes?
- Big feelings under control: Can they calm down with a little help when upset?
- A little independence: Do they follow simple steps like putting on shoes or cleaning up toys?
- Talking and listening: Do they use words to ask for things or tell short stories?
- Sticking to a routine: Are they used to having set times for meals, naps, or bedtime?
You don’t need a test to know if your child is ready. Watch how they act during playdates or at home and trust your gut.
Helping Your Child Feel Good About Starting Preschool
Get Your Child Excited
- Talk about preschool: Say fun things like, “You’ll meet new friends and hear exciting stories!”
- Read fun preschool books: Try books like The Kissing Hand or Llama Llama Misses Mama at storytime.
- Share your own stories: Tell them about when you started school and how you made friends too!
Helping With Nervous Feelings
- Practice short goodbyes: Leave your child with a grandparent or friend for short periods, then longer ones.
- Talk about how preschool works: Let them know you’ll always come back after drop-off.
- Play fun games: Use games like peek-a-boo to help them get used to you leaving and coming back.
Create a Special Goodbye
- Make a fun goodbye: Try a secret handshake, a big hug, or even a silly rhyme.
- Practice it together: Use this goodbye at daycare or when visiting family so it feels normal.
Get Ready for Preschool in Practical Ways
Visit the Classroom First
- Take a tour: Show your child around the school before the first day.
- Meet the teachers: Say hello to teachers and other kids ahead of time to help them feel safe.
- Join a welcome event: Go to special events or open days the school offers.
Start a Routine Early
- Move bedtime earlier: Slowly change bedtime and wake-up time two weeks before school begins.
- Practice mornings: Try getting dressed, eating breakfast, and heading out like it’s a real school day.
- Keep meals fun: Add a little magic to breakfast with fun foods like “banana dragons” or “pancake rainbows.”
Label Everything!
- Put names on items: Label your child’s jacket, backpack, and lunchbox.
- Let them decorate: Put fun stickers or doodles on items to make them more special.
Let Your Child Help Prepare
- Pick out school items together: Let them choose their backpack, shoes, or water bottle.
- Help with snacks: Let them help pack a healthy snack to feel more involved.
Practice Helpful Skills
- Bathroom basics: Practice using the toilet and washing hands without help.
- Fun learning games: Try simple puzzles, coloring, or singing songs together.
What to Do on the First Day of Preschool
Have a Calm and Happy Morning
- Good breakfast: Give them a healthy meal to give them energy for the day.
- Talk it up: Share happy thoughts like “You’re going to have so much fun!”
- Leave extra time: Wake up a bit earlier so you’re not rushing out the door.
During Drop-Off
- Keep goodbyes short: Smile, give a hug, and say goodbye calmly.
- Be calm and confident: Even if your child is sad, your smile helps them feel safe.
- Trust the teachers: Preschool teachers know just how to make children feel welcome and happy.
How to Help After the First Day of Preschool
Talk About Their Day
- Ask fun questions: Try “What was the silliest thing that happened today?”
- Listen and care: If they had a tough time, show them you understand and want to help.
- Say “good job!”: Celebrate small wins like trying a new activity or being brave at drop-off.
Create a New After-School Routine
- Make time to talk: Set aside a quiet time to hear all about their adventure at school.
- Keep everything in one spot: Create a place for school shoes, bags, and art projects at home.
Stay Involved
- Join school events: Try to go to school shows or volunteer when you can.
- Talk with teachers: Stay in touch with the teachers to hear how your child is doing.
Enjoy the Preschool Journey!
Starting preschool is a big step for your little one. Be proud and enjoy watching them grow. At Kia Mena Montessori, we make sure children feel happy and safe as they learn and explore. With your support and our caring teachers, your child’s preschool adventure can be full of smiles and fun!
Want to know more about different types of early learning? Check out these helpful resources:
- Montessori Foundation – Great info about the Montessori style of learning
- Zero to Three – Tips for helping young kids grow and learn
- NAEYC – The National Association for the Education of Young Children
- BBC – Easy-to-read articles on parenting and young children
Preschool is just the start of a bright and exciting path. Smile, support your child, and enjoy the adventure together!
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