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Is Your Child Ready for Preschool?

Home » Early Learning » Choosing Your Child's Preschool » Is Your Child Ready for Preschool?
Posted by Your Guide on March 14, 2006 4:03 PM

Every child is different, but if you sense that your child needs more sensory stimulation, preschool may be a good alternative place for spending some quality time with friends….giving you a short amount of time to spend in activities that you enjoy. In most families, the child is ready for a preschool or Parents’ Day Out program before their parents are ready to let them go.

Even though you might be tempted to make this important decision based on your child’s age, not every three year old is ready for a classroom setting. The following questions may help you decide for sure if your child is mature enough, as well as developmentally, and socially ready to take this step toward independence.

• How verbal is my child? Can he/she speak so that others can understand what he/she needs?

• Is my child potty trained, or does he/she still need help in that area?

• Can my child play around and interact with others? Does he/she enjoy that experience?

• Can my child understand and follow simple instructions, such as “Please get your coat and backpacks,” or “Don’t forget to pick up your lunchbox.”

• Does my child need the amount of outside stimulation that a new environment, new friends, and new rules will bring into his/her life?

• Does my child seem curious about the world outside his/her home, yard, and neighborhood?

• Is my child shy and afraid around other adults and children, or does he/she welcome new people into his/her circle easily?

• Is my child outgoing and confident enough to enjoy a group learning and playing experience?

• Does my child cling to me when I leave him/her with relatives, friends, or babysitters?

• Will I be able to relax and enjoy the time my child is away from me, or will I be nervous or anxious about the separation?

The answers to these questions are designed to help in the decision. Many factors will play a role in your decision. Your family’s ability to afford preschool tuition will be one factor. If your child has a special need or disability, they may still be ready for a classroom setting, but you may desire to find one that is able to accommodate their needs, or that can provide extra attention so that your child’s experiences there are beneficial to them.

Many parents find that visiting the school they would like their child to attend will bring about more questions. These visits should be made alone first, then with your child. Watching how your child reacts to the possibility of a school setting will most likely aid in your decision.

Finally, if you are still unsure, talk to the preschool about the possibility of your child attending for a short time one day, an entire day, or even for one week. If your child has a pleasant experience while visiting, they may even ask to return. If you decide that your child is not yet ready for a classroom setting, be patient with them. Every child develops at his/her own pace. Trust your instincts and you and your child will both be happy with the decision.



Next Page: Does Preschool Make Your Child More Prepared for School?

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