How to prepare your toddler for preschool

Entering preschool is an enormous step for your toddler. It can be further challenging since preschools are looking for certain skills that would signify your toddler’s readiness for school. Her are some ways you can do gradually in order to help your toddler become prepared for preschool:

1. Talk to your child in sentences.

Talking to your child using complete sentences can help him become a more efficient conversationalist later on.  When he points to an object and says, “ball,” you can say, “Yes, that’s a ball.” He may not repeat what you have said and you should not make him do so. He will pick up on it later on as long as you are consistent in using complete sentences when talking to him or whenever you are with him.

2. Take some time apart.

Give some time to leave your child for a few minutes or an hour in order to accustom him to another efficient caregiver.  Before you, leave, though, always assure your child first that you will be coming back. Sneaking away may develop into anxiety in the future.

 

3. Give your child simple instructions.

Start asking your child to do simple instructions like putting the white socks in the basket, picking up his things, etc. As you give these instructions, however, make sure that you have the patience to wait for your child to do them. Giving him instructions but not allowing him to have the time to do them may confuse the child into thinking that they are not important or need not to be followed. One can see the child’s ability to comprehend as they follow instructions.

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4. Start visiting the school.

Visiting the school and letting your child get acquainted with the surroundings, as well as the people may help relieve some fears of the unknown. Seeing the play area may excite him and may make an impression that school is a fun place.

 

5. Plan some play activities.

Play can be a very engaging task for toddlers so make sure that when you introduce this kind of activity to your child, you can allow him to finish it. Simple activities like letting your child doodle on a large manila paper on the floor or letting him scoop water from one container to another are helpful in developing his fine motor skills, which some preschools may look for in their future enrollees.

 

6. Read to your child.

Make sure to take some time to sit down and read to your child. This activity may help you evaluate, as well as develop, your child’s attention span and comprehension. Letting your toddler comfortably sit on your lap, holding the book in front of both of you may help him become more focused and attentive. Make sure to choose books with colorful images.

 

Photo from sxc.hu