How to Prepare Children for the First Day of Preschool?

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The first day of the preschool can be an easy or very difficult one, depending on the child. You may consider yourself lucky, if your children are eager and can’t wait for the day. However, many children are affected by anxiety and they are reluctant to leave the home due to fear and concerns. This is the first step for children to grow up and spread their wings. So, regardless of how they feel, parents should provide support and assistance in any way possible. There are many benefits that you can get by sending children to preschool. It is a good opportunity for children to establish their first social network and learn some basic life skills. When managed properly, preschool will contribute a lot to their personal and social growth. As an example, preschool will teach children about following directions and rules, which are things that adults need to do as well.

The first day in preschool can be quite emotional for children, but you can make it a wonderful day for them. Parent should always look for ways to make much easier transition. Children should be encouraged to be independent. Weeks before the first day, children should be taught feed and dress themselves. Make these activities as achievement-based. So, when the child is able to complete a task and does it regularly, you need to praise the child for the achievement and give a meaningful reward. This will make children to be eager to achieve more things and they will be motivated to grow steadily. If children are affected by anxiety, you may visit the preschool a few times before the first day, so you children will be familiar with the surroundings and the teachers.

It is normal for children to feel worry when they need to spent time in a strange place without the presence of their parents. Accompany children to observe and explore the preschool. If they enjoy the experience, they will feel the anticipation and excitement. There could be colourful books and toys that they are eager to read and play. This simple step could easily prepare children for preschool activities. Parents should also talk and act eagerly, by talking and focusing on fun things that await children in preschool. It is less likely for children to become anxious, if they are excited. Parents should be clear about what will happen during the first day in preschool.

It is also helpful if parents tell children to expect playing with friends. Within a week after the first day at preschool, children should already have their school routine. It is important to ensure that children are well adjusted to the preschool routine as soon as possible. The night before preschool could be the peak of anxiety, but this is the moment when parents should calm their children down. Make sure that children are well fed and sleep early to prepare them for the next day. Upon arriving at the preschool, children will be much more prepared and they can handle anxiety much better. When you say a loving goodbye to the child, make sure that you smile sincerely and reassuringly, so children will feel a lot better.