Tips for beginning preschool

Your three or four-year-old may have already experienced the anxiety of being left with a caregiver as you went off to work or out for the evening. As he or she enters preschool, you both may experience the anxiety of separating in a new environment. Here are some tips for making the beginning of preschool a positive experience for all.

• Talk about the new preschool experience. Listen carefully, and try to answer questions your child may have about preschool. Encourage an older sibling to share memorable experiences. Look for books that can be used for discussing the exciting things that he or she may have the opportunity to do at preschool.
• Share your feelings. When it is time to separate, allow your child to express any feelings he or she has. Stabilize the situation by sharing your feelings in a reassuring and calm manner.
• Always say good-bye. Give closure to your departure, and reinforce trust with your child by letting him or her see you leave.
• Develop a routine. Departure routine helps reassure a child who is feeling stressed. Involve your child in developing a routine that might include a good-bye song, a special hug, or a "secret signal".

As with all big steps in life, there may be moments of uncertainty. Keep your hugs and smiles ready, and you will both do just fine.

(c) The Education Connection Inc. 1997