The summers before my kids started preschool for the first time were a busy ones. My son was almost three and my daughter nearly four (he has a September birthday, she's in January). Our days were filled with lots of pre-preschool prep -- finishing up our potty training, buying the all-important backpack and taking a couple of trips to the playground at their new preschool so they could try it out a few times.
My son was all about starting school. He would talk about it constantly and ask millions of questions. He couldn't wait to walk in the door that first day. My daughter was a bit more reserved. If we brought the subject up, she'd answer any questions we'd have and then quickly change the subject. She did fine on the first day, but you could tell she definitely had her reservations. The funny part is, it was my son who, a few weeks into the school year, started to have preschool anxiety while my daughter never looked back.
Starting preschool is a big deal for little kids -- particularly if they've never been in daycare or away from you for too long. It's important to help them feel ready to start school while not overwhelming them -- a delicate balance to be sure.
There are quite a few things you can do to help your child prepare:
- Visit the school -- chances are it isn't in session over the summer, but if it's permitted, a least a trip to the playground is a good idea.
- Read books about starting preschool and the first day of school.
- Schedule playdates with other children who might be in your child's class.
- Go back-to-school shopping, letting your child have some input in choosing a backpack or a special outfit.
- Review manners and basic social skills like how to wash his hands.
- Answer any questions she may have about starting preschool -- and if she changes the subject let her. If you sense she's hesitant, let her be the one to broach the subject.
Related: School Success Strategies | What Your Child Shouldn't Bring to Preschool | How to Be a Great Class Parent
Want more back-to-school tips? Visit the All About Back to School Blog Carnival, hosted by Elizabeth Kennedy, the About.com Guide to Children's Books.
Follow me on Twitter. Become a fan on Facebook. Subscribe to my newsletter.