How Earlier Should you Put your Child in Preschool?
Is There an Optimal Age for Preschool Education?
Most preschools start enrolling kids at 3, but does that mean your child is ready for it? More importantly, are you ready for it? Her age does not determine your child’s readiness to join a preschool. It can be tempting to look at interesting activities and conclude that your child can do them. But the important question is: Is your child ready to break away from you and join a structured program with other children in his age group?
Experts suggest that preschool is an experience not to be missed. As a parent, you like your child to have a solid basis. But it’s just as important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding to put your child in preschool.
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Preschoolers Help your Child Develop Social Skills.
The benefits of preschools aren’t just limited to your child’s academic growth. Some parents tend to pressure their children to enter a preschool, thinking they will progress academically. Contrary to popular belief, the most important benefit of preschool is that children learn to socialize and interact with other children and teachers. It instills a love of learning in children and teaches them how to share, adapt, and get along with their peers.
Play Dates and Outings are Sometimes Enough for a Child’s Social Development.
In preschool, your little one learns to get along with other children and to resolve their conflicts without parental intervention. You cannot recite in the same environment at the house. There is no denying the comfort, free play, and values children receive from staying at home.
At the same time, the preschool offers an organized learning environment that cannot be created at home. Offers the right mix of structured and unstructured activities to enhance your child’s growth and development.
Even if you decide to homeschool your child, staying consistent with your efforts takes a lot of work. You have to intentionally work to teach your child the skills that other children are learning at school. The preschool curriculum comprises activities and materials that engage children to keep them interested and help them learn unconsciously.
Your Child Learns to Trust and Build Relationships With Others.
A young child is often very attached to the caregiver and has difficulty being with other adults. Some may even feel strange in the presence of friends and family. Going to preschool gives your child a chance to interact with adults other than you. You will be able to speak up and express your concerns to teachers.
Thus, trust is fostered, and the child feels safe even when you are not around. Patience is also an important virtue that the child absorbs during school. Children are used to the exclusive attention of the family and caregiver. They must wait their turn in preschool as other children require the same attention.
It Prepares Them for a Soft Transition to School.
Preschool delivers an environment that equips your child to transition to kindergarten and school. Getting up on time, eating lunch alone, following the teachers’ instructions, playing and getting along with other children, and learning in class are some activities that prepare the child for his daily routine at school. In short, she bridges the gap between home and elementary school.
How to Manage Separation Anxiety
If your child isn’t ready for preschool, he may experience separation anxiety and stress that make him feel guilty about her decision. Going to school is a big change from the schedule your child has become accustomed to. She sees new people around her and takes time to trust and understand teachers and peers.
As a parent, you need to be prepared to handle the tough mornings when your child doesn’t want to go to school. Children may get sick, throw tantrums, or fight in the first few days of staying home. Be prepared to handle these challenges and take extra care of your child in these early days.
Difficult Daily Hours and Schedules
While some preschools have a flexible schedule, others require a strict routine. This could make it difficult, especially for working parents. Also, the high cost of before and after-school facilities makes it a difficult decision for parents. Depending on your child’s schedule, you may need to leave early or start early.
Lunch Pack and Other Toiletries.
The best thing about having a caregiver at home is that you have everything prepared for the child at home. You don’t have to worry about anything from daily meals to changing diapers. This is different when your child starts preschool. You are responsible for preparing and packing the food according to the preschool’s instructions. You may also need to pack spare clothes or a blanket if the school requires it.
Preparing your Child for Preschool
Before you choose to put your child in preschool, do your study. Talk to teachers, the principal, and friends who have experience with your children in preschool. Learn about the preschool goals for your child’s age.
If your child isn’t ready for preschool yet, don’t worry. Try to instill anticipation and excitement rather than anxiety and angst. Create a positive environment at home where you talk with your children about the fun they will have at preschool and the new friends they will make. Children feel safe when you present an idea to them before executing it.
Helping your child be independent is another important step in preparing them for preschool. Please encourage them to do small activities like brushing their hair or wearing shorts. This gives them a sense of accomplishment, and they feel comfortable moving to the next level. After all, self-confidence is the best virtue to ease your child’s journey through his school years.
