Preschool is an exciting time in the lives of our littles. It may be their first time away from home for an extended period of time. They will have lots of opportunities to learn, socialize and make friends. And they will likely also bring home the expected cold or two.
Here’s what to know about your child’s introduction to their school years, and how to adapt as parents, too.
THEY’LL LET YOU KNOW WHEN THEY’RE READY
Can your child follow simple directions? Does your child show interest in exploring new things and participating in activities? Can your child follow a routine and understand the concept of structured time for meals, rest time, and activities? Do they have the physical stamina to participate in a half-day or full-day program successfully with a structured rest time during the full-day program?
If so, your little learner is probably ready to start school—whether or not you are, says Laura Hubschman-Scuderi, M.Ed, director of Palisades Country Day School in Closter.
“Look at their developmental milestones, assess their skills at expressing their needs and following simple instructions, note their social interactions and their ability to handle some tasks on their own,” she says. “Are they able to independently use the toilet, wash their hands, put on simple articles of clothing and eat?”
THEY’LL LEARN & SOCIALIZE
Every child has their own learning style and needs for development, and many preschools have teachers who adapt to the process.
“A multi-sensory learning approach should always be at the forefront of daily life in the preschool classroom. Through visual, tactile and auditory experiences, children develop mathematical and literacy concepts,” says Hubschman-Scuderi.
Many preschools offer academic and recess structures, as well as an array of special programs such as music, creative movement, sports, multicultural holiday celebrations, character education, mindfulness, art classes and more. They should be painting, drawing and singing to help with not only their expression but also their fine motor skills, Hubschman-Scuderi says.
“At times the child does have an academic-like experience for the first time,” says Erin Seppala, senior marketing manager for Apple Montessori Schools, which has multiple locations throughout New Jersey. “Children have an innate desire to play and explore. This is the ultimate way of learning and Apple provides that in an environment that fulfills their natural desire for knowledge supported through the right tools.”
THEY THRIVE ON STRUCTURE
Consistency and routines help children feel safe and secure, Hubschman-Scuderi says. “When children (and even adults) know what to expect, they feel more in control, less anxious, and more likely to exhibit positive behaviors,” she says. “Routines help children build stable emotional foundations with their families and teachers while fostering independence and confidence in their own abilities to take on new challenges. They learn to trust and build healthy relationships with those around them.”
She adds that you need to keep a stable morning routine, sleep patterns, mealtimes and family time at home.
BUT THEY CAN ALSO BE OVERSTIMULATED
When young ones are exposed to new people, places and things, it’s great for their well-being. However, if you feel your child may be overwhelmed, you can talk to your child’s teacher about pulling back or adding quiet time to the day.
You can ask for progress reports or meetings with the teacher to check in on your child. Don’t wait until those dreaded middle school parent-teacher conferences to get a read on what’s going on.
“Constant communication is the key to help a child adjust and parents to form trust with the school body,” Seppala says.
SOLSTOCK
YOUR KID MAY MISS YOU … AND THAT’S OK
This may be the first time your child is away from you for an extended period of time. Separation anxiety is normal, but touring the preschool with your child and getting to know their teachers will help them feel more comfortable, Hubschman-Scuderi says.
“During the first few days, there may be tears; however, once a bond is made with teachers and relationships begin to bloom, children feel safe and confident to explore the classroom and school activities independent of their families,” she says.
THEY WILL GET SICK, PERIOD
There is no doubt that the more kids you’re around, the more germs you’re around. Ask what immunizations are needed before the start of school.
And check the school’s guidelines and protocols for sick children, and how you have to report if your child stays home from school (especially if he or she has a fever), Hubschman-Scuderi says.
IT’S AN AMAZING TIME FOR GROWTH
Kids will establish a strong foundation for their social and emotional development, learning skills and interpersonal relationships by starting school early, says Hubschman-Scuderi.
“Preschool is meant to be fun. It is an opportunity for our young learners to develop confidence to explore new things, take on healthy challenges, ask questions about the world around them, and to foster positive peer and adult relationships while becoming more self-aware,” she says. “These are pivotal years for personalities to develop in a nurturing and loving environment away from sole caregivers.”
HOW TO HELP THEM ADJUST
If you’re excited about a new adventure, your kids will be, too. “Begin talking about routines your child can expect from the preschool setting and the wonderful teachers who will be guiding them throughout the day,” says Hubschman-Scuderi. “At home, you can encourage your child to practice self-help skills to build confidence and independence, like unzipping coats, hanging them up, saying good morning.
Make sure you foster healthy and consistent eating and sleep habits to set your child up for success when the school days are right around the corner.”
The more you encourage your child, the more it fosters independence, confidence, self-awareness and responsibility in young learners, says Hubschman-Scuderi, which can help them relax and settle in to their preschool journey.
