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Preschool is a valuable experience in the life of any child. It’s where they learn to interact with other children, to share, and to start building confidence in who they are.
That can seem like a lot for a toddler to take on, but their brains soak up information and with the right environment around them, they’ll start to develop the personality traits that they need for life.
Of course, that doesn’t make it any easy for you to actually send them to preschool, as it can be as difficult for the parent as the toddler.
The secret to successfully integrating them into a preschool lies in two things. The first is in the choosing a good preschool. If you’re still searching, check out this childcare, Wyndham Vale. When you have confidence in the preschool, you’ll find it easier to reassure your child.
The second is to be prepared and prepare your child. Here’s how you can prepare your child:
Play Preschool
You can help your toddler to understand what preschool is and that it may be fun. Simply create your own preschool at home with their favorite teddies. Then act out some of the routines from preschool, such as saying “goodbye” to mummy or daddy, or reading stories.
Don’t forget to switch roles with your child; let them be the parent or the teacher.
Visit First
You’ll probably want to visit several preschools before deciding on one. Take your child with you so they can see what the places are like. It will make it easier for them on the first day.
You should also revisit the one you choose and make sure you leave your child for at least five minutes to do their own thing. You can talk to teachers and handle any paperwork while they start to feel confident in their new surroundings.
Make Games
There are several skills your toddler will need at preschool, such as zipping and unzipping their coat, or getting their bag and putting it on their back.
Any activity they are likely to have to do you can practice with them before by making it a game. Simply turn it into a race; they’ll enjoy it and learn new skills.
Talk To Them
Toddlers may not have the largest vocabulary range, but that doesn’t mean they can’t express their feelings. Tell them what is going to happen and why it’s important for them to go. Then give them the opportunity to tell you what they’re worried about. You should be able to find ways to alleviate these worries and make the first-day drop off easier.
Develop A Routine
You need a routine for saying “goodbye.” It will make it feel more normal and your toddler will know you’re returning. In fact, it will make it easier for you as well.
Simple is best, such as saying “goodbye,” having a cuddle and a kiss, and then walking away. You can practice this at home and then stick to it on the say you drop them off. They’ll be in good hands and will quickly adapt.
