As hard as it may be to think about…you’re wondering if you should send your little one to preschool, if they’re even ready…or…if you’re even ready. We can help you out with 5 signs your child is ready to go to preschool, but as far as preparing yourself, well… we haven’t figured that one out yet.
IF YOUR CHILD…
1. WANTS TO MAKE FRIENDSWanting to socialize is a huge sign your child is ready to go to preschool. After all, preschool is all about learning through play and socialization. Learning some socialization skills is important in your child being able to make friends. Before sending your child to preschool you should work with them on:
- Sharing
- Being away from you for several hours
- Playing in a group
- Showing Empathy
- Following routine
- Expressing their emotions
2. LOVES ARTS & CRAFTS
If your child loves to color, preschool is the place for them! It’s a bonus if your child is able to use scissors, knows some colors and shapes, or can use a glue stick…but if not, that’s fine! They have plenty of time to learn all of that. If you’re not sure if your child loves arts & crafts or not. If they enjoy crafting.
3. ENJOYS BEING READ TOO
Does your preschooler love to curl up in your lap while you read book after book to them? Then they will love preschool! Children should be read to every day, and in preschool your child will be read to a lot! Books are an amazing learning tool in teaching a variety of things, such as:
- Colors
- Shapes
- Letters
- Numbers
- Animals
- Honesty
- Respect
- Manners
- Love
- Kindness
We can’t list all of the things your child can learn from books here, but your preschooler will tell you all about the things they learn every day in preschool.
4. OBEYS RULES
Wait! Don’t stop reading! If you saw the word “obeys” and said “oh, well never mind”… we get it! Kids will be kids. They don’t have to be perfect all the time. However, running around the class, throwing things, hitting classmates, refusing to listen repeatedly, and yelling at the teacher, are big no no’s in the preschool world.
Typical Classroom Rules
- Eyes looking
- Ears listening
- Hands helping
- Feet walking
- Voices quiet
You can start working on these skills with your child at home to prepare them for preschool.
5. IS EAGER TO LEARN
Most importantly, your child wants to learn! If you think your child is lacking in any skills they need for school, that’s what preschool is for! All preschools are different. There’s different requirements about potty training, different teaching styles, public or private schools, in person or online… and even more.
That’s a good thing for your preschooler though! That means that as long as they show these 5 signs they’re ready for preschool, you can find a preschool that is a great fit for your child.
…THEN THEY MAY BE READY FOR PRESCHOOL!