Getting Your Child Ready For Preschool

Millions of American kids will be heading off to preschool for the first time in the fall! If your child is one of them, there are things you can do to help her be prepared for this new experience and get the most out of the school's curriculum and social opportunities. Here are a few quick tips.

--If your child has never been to a facility for child care in Pasco, WA, organize a play group with other mothers so that your little one can get a head start on learning how to play well with others. Although kids learn important cognitive skills in preschool, it is primarily a place where they will learn how to make new friends, share, and compromise. Getting her social feet wet in a less intimidating home setting is what organizing a playgroup is all about: it really is a great idea. If you take turns holding the playgroup in different homes, she will get used to the idea that you can go away for a few hours and that you will come back.

--Take her on a tour of the school a week or two before she starts. A lot of the trepidation kids feel is due to the fear of the unknown. Many preschools hold open houses or other events during the summer so that kids can get acclimated (and excited)! Take advantage of these events; or if your preschool doesn't hold one, ask for a private tour.

--Always speak positively about going to school. Emphasize all the wonderful things she will discover: new buddies, new toys, new grownups to interact with, etc. If you had separation anxiety as a child, do not attempt to allay her fears by revealing your own! Instead, be understanding and sympathetic if she's afraid (never belittling). With your help and a little time, she'll work through it.

Going to preschool is a new adventure in your child's life: help her make the most of it!

By: Jordan Rocksmith

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JigsawKids Preschool child care in Pasco, WA and the Tri-cities provides young learners with a safe, nurturing, and age-appropriate environment, and a bilingual and multicultural program to promote strong character, self-esteem, and essential social skills. (www.jigsawkids.net)