Key points:
Your kid's first day at pre-school will be a mix of excitement and emotions for the whole family. The transition to preschool is a big step for both children and parents. As a parent, sending your child off might feel a bit overwhelming.
Pre-school differs from childcare in its structured approach to learning and development. Preparing for these transitions involves considering ways to support your child.
Children's feelings about starting big school can vary—some may be excited, others a bit apprehensive, and some may feel uncertain. As a parent or caregiver, you may wonder if your child is ready for this change. The way your child adjusts also depends on how you prepare them.
Here are tips on how you can support your child through their preschool transition:
Begin by having positive conversations about preschool. Tell exciting stories about your experience and focus on the fun aspects. Give them a brief overview on what they can expect like making new friends, playing, and learning new things. This can help build a sense of excitement and curiosity in your child.
Familiarise your child with the preschool environment by visiting together. Schedule a tour with your child, play on the school playground a few times, and make these visits a positive and confidence-building experience for your toddler.
Establish a consistent and healthy morning routine, including breakfast, reading a book on the way to school, greeting the teacher, and bidding a cheerful farewell. If your child becomes cranky or tearful in the morning, offer comfort and reassurance without resorting to yelling.
Listen to your child’s feelings about starting preschool. Let them talk about how they feel. This way you’ll understand what they need. Try sharing your own experiences of starting something new and how you dealt with it.
The most common way of how parents leave their children in preschool is by sneaking out while they are occupied. Sneaking out without a proper farewell can create feelings of abandonment.
Create a special goodbye ritual to make parenting easier. It could be a special hug, a high-five, or a fun handshake. A consistent ritual can provide comfort and a sense of security.
Every child adjusts at their own pace. Some might take one day to four weeks, while others might need a bit longer. Some children settle the first time and some may need more time. Avoid sorting to yelling if they throw a tantrum as this might worsen the situation.
Celebrate small milestones and provide constant encouragement. Remember, starting preschool is a significant milestone in your child’s life. Your support and guidance can make this transition a positive and enriching experience.
Transitioning from childcare to pre-school is an exciting time for both parents and children. It's a journey filled with growth, learning, and new friendships. With the right preparation and support, this transition can be a smooth and joyful experience for your child, setting them up for a successful start in their educational journey.
At Wonder Years, we prioritise your child's well-being, providing a supportive atmosphere that encourages curiosity and creativity. With a focus on gradual integration, our child care programs cater to individual needs, fostering a positive settling-in experience.
Why Choose Wonder Years?
Give your child the best start in their wonderful years. Explore our child care services at Wonder Years and embark on a journey of joyful learning and discovery. We are conveniently located nearby Hornsby, Dural, Castle Hill, Westleigh, and West Pennant Hills.
Call us today at (02) 9484 2595 to book a tour!
