Helping Your Child Start Preschool: Easy Tips and Ideas
Why Starting Preschool Is a Big Deal
Starting preschool is a special time in a child’s life. It might be their first time away from home, making new friends and learning fun things like letters, numbers, and how to share. It can feel exciting—but also a little scary. At Kia Mena Montessori, we know how important this moment is for families, so we’re here to help make it easier!
What Makes Preschool Feel New and Different
Preschool is very different from staying at home. Kids meet new teachers, play with other children, and follow a new schedule. This big change can make some kids feel nervous or unsure. But with the right help, they’ll feel happy and ready to learn.
How to Get Ready Before Preschool Starts
Take a Trip to the Preschool
Visit the preschool together before the first day so your child can see what it looks like. Walk around the classroom, look at the toys, and meet the teachers. This helps make the place feel safe and fun.
Start a Simple Morning Routine
A good routine makes mornings less stressful. Try getting up at the same time every day, eating breakfast, brushing teeth, and getting dressed early. Doing this before school starts helps kids get used to their new schedule.
Play Learning Games at Home
Try fun games that teach kids about school. Do puzzles, color pictures, build with blocks, or read books together. These games help your child practice the same kinds of things they’ll do in preschool.
- Play pretend school at home
- Read stories about going to preschool
- Sing songs and learn simple routines
You can also learn more about early learning activities to try with your child.
Helping Kids Feel Good About Starting Preschool
Talk About Preschool in a Fun Way
Tell your child happy stories about preschool. Talk about all the fun they’ll have playing, painting, and meeting new friends. When kids think preschool sounds fun, they feel more excited to go.
Read Books About Preschool
Books help children understand new experiences. Try reading books like “Maisy Goes to Preschool” or “The Kissing Hand”. These stories can help your child feel safe and excited for their new adventure.
Sites like Scholastic have many good books for preschoolers.
Play Preschool at Home
You can play pretend preschool at home. Take turns being the teacher and student. Practice lining up, reading stories, and pretending to have snack time. This makes preschool feel more normal.
Dealing with Goodbyes and Separation
Practice Short Separations
Before school starts, let your child spend short amounts of time with a trusted family member or friend. This helps them learn that you always come back.
Make a Fun Goodbye Routine
Try a special goodbye every day—like a hug, high-five, or silly wave. Doing this the same way each day helps your child feel calm and safe.
Talk About Feelings
Ask your child how they feel about school. Let them share worries or ask questions. Remind them it’s okay to feel nervous—but also let them know they’ll have a great time!
Getting Involved with Your Child’s Preschool
Meet the Teachers
Talk to your child’s teachers and share things like your child’s favorite toy or what makes them happy. This helps teachers care for your child in the best way.
Go to Preschool Events
Attend open houses and family events. This helps your child feel proud and helps you meet other parents and kids.
Volunteer if You Can
If you have time, help out at the school. Your child will love seeing you there, and it will help them feel more at home.
Learn more about getting involved with school at NAEYC.
Helping Kids Make Friends and Learn Social Skills
Plan Playdates
Set up playdates with other kids going to the same preschool. This helps your child make friends and feel more comfortable when school starts.
Practice Talking and Sharing
Teach your child simple ways to talk with others, take turns, and share toys. These skills help them make friends and get along with everyone.
For more ideas, visit Parents.com for tips on helping kids socialize.
What to Do if Things Feel Hard
Watch How Your Child Is Doing
Pay attention to how your child acts during the first weeks. Some nervousness is normal, but keep checking in to make sure they’re feeling okay.
Ask for Help if Needed
If your child is really struggling, it’s okay to ask for help from a pediatrician or child counselor. Sometimes a little extra support is all they need.
Last Thoughts
Starting preschool is a big step, but with the right support, your child can grow, learn, and enjoy this new chapter. At Kia Mena Montessori, we’re here to help your family every step of the way. Let’s make the preschool journey a happy one!
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