Steps to Prepare Your Child for Preschool

Parents can help their children get adjusted before attending preschool by following some simple steps to make the process easier.

West End Journal | May - June, 2007 | By Tiffany Taylor

It may not be college, but for children like four-year-old Devin Mitchell, preschool is the first big social and educational adjustment a child has to make.

When Mitchell’s mother, Shawana Harmon, enrolled him into Sherwood Forest preschool, she was glad to see he was just as excited about starting school as she was for him.

“He had no problems adjusting,” Harmon said. “He’s my only child, so because he doesn’t have anyone to play with at home, he went right up to the other kids.”

Harmon also attributes her son’s smooth transition into preschool to the educational preparation she provided him with at home.

“He started learning his ABCs, numbers and how to read at home,” Harmon said.

Parents of children who are about to enter school for the first time can also take a few practical steps to help ensure a successful transition for their child.

Develop your child’s independence

Make sure your child is trained in basic skills such as being potty-trained, capable of washing their hands, buttoning their shirt and taking naps alone.

Talk with and read to your child

Parents should read to their child, as well as talk with them about the stories. By doing this, the child’s listening, language, inference and critical thinking skills will develop.

Like Harmon, talk with your child about letters and numbers. Parents can make this a fun activity by introducing their child to these subjects through coloring and activity books as well as flash cards.

Prepare your child for new social settings

Parents can introduce their child to their teacher, as well as tour the facility so the child is familiar with new adults and new environments.

Like Harmon’s son, Devin, make sure your child is able to interact with other children in the class. If your child is not use to group participation, schedule a playtime with your child at home or at a local park to help your child with sharing and expressing themselves.