How Do I Know If My Child Is Ready for Preschool?
Created by, Katie Brandow, LCSW
One of the questions we hear most often from parents is, “How do I know if my child is ready for preschool?”
After nearly 20 years of partnering with families in Bend, Oregon, we’ve learned that there isn’t one right answer.
Some children are eager to jump into a classroom while others need a little more time. Some parents are ready for the transition before their child is and sometimes it’s the other way around. Every family is different and that’s okay.
Rather than focusing on a specific age or checklist, we encourage parents to consider a few simple questions:
Is my child curious about other children?
Are they beginning to communicate their needs?
Would they benefit from a consistent routine outside the home?
Am I ready for this next step?
Parents may consider or worry about the basics such as remembering to use the bathroom, expressing themselves or separating from caregivers easily before starting preschool. We’re here to remind families that preschool is where many of those skills begin to develop and they may not be mastered just yet. Children learn through relationships, routines, play and practice in an environment where they feel safe to do so.
At School of Enrichment, we’ve found that when parents choose a preschool because it feels like the right fit for their family and the family feels confident in that choice and can have their expectations met, that confidence often helps children transition more smoothly. For example, if a family is worried about their child being sad after drop off, communication is prioritized so the family knows exactly how the child is doing and how long they were potentially sad, ideally in real time. This puts parent at ease and that energy is contagious to their child. A confident parent creates a comfortable child and we help facilitate that energy.
You know your child better than anyone else. Trust your instincts, ask questions and find a program that aligns with your family’s values. There isn’t one perfect age to begin preschool, but there is a program and a timing that’s right for your family. If this speaks to you, contact us for a tour.
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