Selecting the right preschool is important to ensure that your child’s preschool experience will help them to gain an appreciation of what school is like and acquire a positive attitude toward school.
After you’ve confirmed that the preschool has been state-licensed to confirm that the facility has adequate space and staff and meets your states requirements, schedule an appointment to visit.
When you walk into the preschool door, linger a moment and be attentive to what you hear. Whose voices are dominant? In a good preschool, the children’s voices should dominate (unless it’s quiet time, of course).
Visually, you should observe a bright, colorful and safe environment where children look comfortable and are interested and engaged in an activity – not overly distracted or wandering. The adults should appear as though they enjoy their work, are in control, (but not harsh) are responsive to the children, loving and caring. Classes should have no more than 20 students – around 15 is ideal.
Make sure to ask how long the teachers and assistant teachers have been with the preschool. Teachers and assistants who’ve been with the preschool for years and a generally low turn over rate of staff is a good sign. Also ask what the teacher requirements are. Look for four-year college degrees with early education and childhood development training, first aid and emergency preparedness.
Finding a safe and qualified preschool for your child is an important component for a successful preschool experience for your child but don’t overlook what you can do as a parent to prepare your preschooler.
Structured play groups are great options to develop good group play skills, listening skills and the self worth needed for more structured school environments. Look for preschools that provide fun activities and self-worth building concepts. Look for curriculum that has been designed and structured by a preschool curriculum expert.
Affirming the wonderful qualities within your child will also help to build your preschooler’s self worth and position them well for starting preschool. A parent’s words are very powerful within the life of their child and have a huge influence on how they view themselves. Get into the habit throughout the day to affirm the positive choices your child makes.
Even a drive in the car can provide an opportunity to fortify your child with positive principles that will position them for a successful school experience. When your child is “a captive audience” buckled in the car, play uplifting music that encourages your child to be their very best. Make sure the CD is fun to listen to, will reinforce to your child that they are a unique and wonderful miracle while encouraging them to be the best they can be.
Preparing to start your child’s school experience is an exciting and wonderful time! Gathering information and resources and visiting preschools will make you feel more confident in your decisions as a parent while you invest in your preschooler and make them feel more confident about themselves!
Mark Arens, Author and founder of ThumbPeople, Inc. has been recognized for his efforts in bringing resources to parents and children that build positive youth development through instilling self-confidence in children. Thumbuddy’s products; seven children’s books, positive & encouraging music for children and adults and the children’s preschool curriculum, Thumbuddy Club, along with training opportunities through public speaking events see more @ www.thumbpeople.com/online-store/books/thumbuddy-goes-to-school.html
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