As summer is approaching and fall is just around the corner, here are some tips to start preparing your child for a great preschool experience.   Try not to start mentioning preschool until a couple of weeks before the start of school.  Over-emphasizing the start of school too soon creates pressure and anxiety for your little one and most preschoolers are still working on readiness skills when they start preschool.   Here are some tips to help create a welcome experience for both your child and you:

• Address toilet needs and potty training including sending your child to school with clothes that are easy for him to put on and take off.
• Practice hand washing especially before eating and after bathroom use.
• Play games with your child-taking turns, waiting for his turn and following directions are all important tools. Don’t let your child always win!  Learning acceptance of losing is an important life-long skill.
• Read to your child often-ask simple questions about the story-this is time well spent together as well as helping your child to concentrate for short periods of time.
• Preschool involves loads of physical energy and mental stamina-give your child lots of opportunity to play and run outside.  Reinforce and build fine motor skills by letting your child paint, color, glue and even try to use scissors.
• Practice at home giving your child a multiple direction such as: pick up 3 toys in the family room, bring them to your room and put them on the shelf, or have them help you set the table or empty the trash.
• Help your child learn not to interrupt when others are talking.
• Communication skills are so important. Help your child learn to express himself so that an unfamiliar adult can understand his needs.  Words, gestures and sign language all work.
• Start establishing routine and schedule as time moves closer to the start of school, incorporate appropriate wake up and bed times.

A couple weeks before school starts, drive by the school often and point out what a fun time he will be having at preschool. If there is opportunity to meet his teachers or go see his classroom and playground DO IT! If you know of another child who will be in his class, arrange a time for them to play together prior to the start of school.

Enjoy this special chapter in your child’s life.  You will be so surprised at the growth and development your child will exhibit during the preschool years.

Darlene Porter

Darlene is an Early Education Advisor with over 25years experience in the early child development field.  She consults with young families regarding preschool decisions, questions to ask on tours, curriculum philosophies, developmental questions and school readiness including preschool and elementary school decisions.  She can be reached at 626.688.3256,  via email at drporter1@att.net or at darleneporterconsulting.com.