Getting Your Child Ready for Preschool: Easy Tips for Parents
Why Preschool Is Important
Starting preschool is an exciting step in your child’s life. It’s where they begin to learn, grow, and make new friends. At Kia Mena Montessori Preschool in Beckenham, London, we help make this change easier for you and your child. Here are some simple and fun ways to help your little one get ready for preschool.
Is Your Child Ready for Preschool?
Preschool isn’t about knowing big words or doing math. It’s more about how your child gets along with others and handles being on their own for a little while.
Signs Your Child Might Be Ready
- Curious mind: They always ask questions about the world around them.
- Likes being with other kids: Even if they don’t talk much, being around others is a good sign.
- Follows simple rules: If they can do things like bring you a book when you ask, they are learning how to follow directions.
Things to Look For
- Emotions: Can they stay calm when you’re not around?
- Self-care: Can they wash their hands or put on their shoes?
- Thinking skills: Can they name colors, shapes, or letters?
For more about child development at this age, take a look at resources from CDC and NAEYC.
Picking the Right Preschool
Choosing a good preschool is like picking the perfect place where your child feels happy and safe.
What to Think About When Choosing a Preschool
- Location: Is it close to home or work?
- Teaching style: Does it match what you believe in? For example, Montessori focuses on learning by doing.
- School feel: Is the classroom clean, calm, and fun? Do the kids and teachers seem happy?
You can learn more about Montessori education and how it helps children become independent and confident.
Take Your Child With You
Bring your child when visiting different schools. If they feel comfortable and excited, it’s a good sign.
Helping Your Child Feel Ready
Make the Change Easy
- Talk about it often: Tell your child about all the fun things they’ll do at school.
- Take them to visit: Let them walk around and see where they’ll play and learn.
- Read books together: Find stories about going to school. It helps them understand what to expect.
You can find helpful books and tips on Scholastic.
Say Goodbye with a Smile
Create a special way to say goodbye, like a wave or a hug. It helps your child feel safe and know you’ll be back.
Teach Independence
Let your child help with small jobs like picking out clothes or packing their backpack. It makes them feel proud and grown-up.
Helping Your Child Learn New Skills
Talking and Listening
- Practice easy phrases: Help them say things like “Can I play with you?”
- Tell stories together: Encourage their imagination!
- Talk all the time: Use daily moments to teach new words.
Getting Along with Others
- Play team games: Practice taking turns and sharing.
- Set up playdates: Playing with other kids helps them learn to get along.
- Show kindness: Use toys to show how to help and care for others.
Learning Basics
- Count and sing: Use fun songs with numbers and letters.
- Draw shapes and name colors: Make it feel like play, not work.
- Read together: Let them turn pages and talk about what they see.
Make a Daily Routine
Having a regular schedule helps your child feel safe and ready for school.
Build a Simple Daily Plan
- Wake up and bedtime at the same time
- Regular meals and snacks
- Mix of fun and quiet time
For ideas on daily routines for kids, visit Zero to Three.
Getting Ready for the First Day
What to Do Before School Starts
- Pick a fun backpack: Let your child help choose!
- Label everything: Put names on shoes, lunchboxes, and water bottles.
- Pack healthy snacks: Make lunches fun with cut-out sandwiches or fruit shapes.
Talk to the Teachers
Good communication with your child’s teachers helps make the experience great for everyone.
How to Stay Connected
- Say hi at drop-off or pick-up
- Join parent-teacher meetings
- Share important info: Let the teacher know about your child’s likes or health needs.
Handling Worries
What If Your Child Is Nervous?
- Say it’s okay to feel scared
- Use kind words: Tell them how proud you are.
- Talk about their day: Ask fun questions like who they played with or what they built.
Always Be Supportive
Even after the first day, your child still needs your help as they settle into preschool.
Keep It Up!
- Talk about their day: Listen to what they liked or didn’t like.
- Watch how they grow: Celebrate small wins like learning a song or making a friend.
- Be patient: It’s okay if things take time. Every child is different.
Final Thoughts
Getting ready for preschool is a big moment—full of emotion, learning, and new adventures. At Kia Mena Montessori, we’re here to support you every step of the way. With love, patience, and support, your child will be ready to shine in school and beyond.
More Helpful Info
- Parenting.com – Tips and advice for parents
- Scholastic – Great preschool books
- Zero to Three – Child development resources
- Visit Kia Mena Montessori – Learn all about our preschool