Going to preschool for the first time can be exciting and challenging for toddlers and parents alike, but preparation in the weeks before school starts can help and have a real positive effect on your toddler’s experience.
Here are a few tips that will help:
Introduce as many of the school routines at home as you can – things like circle time, book reading, taking the lunch box out of the backpack, and even saying goodbye to mommy and daddy before going off to play. Doing these at home will mean that your toddler will not encounter them for the first time at school.
Read books about preschool together – read stories, go over the activities and roles in school, and use the stories to talk about your child’s feelings and expectations.
Play games to practice self-help skills – find fun ways to make sure that your child knows how to zip and unzip their coat and backpack, open their lunchbox and water bottle, and fasten their shoes.
Let your toddler choose their own backpack, lunch box, first day outfit, and lunch.
In the weeks leading up to the start of school, arrange play-dates with children who will be in the same group or class as your child.
Visit the school before the big day – go to the school with your toddler, introduce him to the space, check out the toys, see where the bathrooms are, and play together in the playground.
While prepping is important and might be helpful, make sure it is always done in play. Making it out to be a big deal might make it more stressful.
Don’t forget – no toddler is absolutely ready for school, and there will always be an adjustment period. Don’t fret! Be optimistic and hold on. This too shall pass!
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