by Kristi Collins, C.D.//
Starting preschool can be one of the most exciting times in your child’s life, as well as one of the most anxious — for your child and for you as a parent. Here are a few tips to help both of you have a less stressful transition from home to preschool.
No. 1: Know what you want
Decide what you are looking for in a preschool. Do you need a half-day or full-day program? Do you want your child to attend every weekday, or would a 2- or 3-day program work better for you? Would you prefer a faith-based program or one that focuses mainly on academics and socialization? Be sure to ask questions about curriculum and ask to see a daily schedule.
No. 2: Take a tour
Tour several centers with your child to see where s/he feels most comfortable. You will be able to find the best fit for you and your family. Plan on staying to observe and let your child acclimate to the classroom if possible. Make sure you call ahead to schedule the visit so that you don’t come right in the middle of rest time or another activity where your child will not be able to get the full experience.
No. 3: Reading preparation
Read some books about starting preschool so that your child will be prepared for some of the activities that they will experience. Children relate well to the storybook characters and get a good sense of what preschool is like. Several great books in this category are: “The Night Before Preschool” by Natasha Wing, “Spot Loves School” by Eric Hill, and “Time for School, Mouse!” by Laura Numeroff.
No. 4: Special goodbyes
Come up with a set way to say goodbye to your child to reassure him/her that you will be back when the school day ends. A special saying, a secret handshake, or a kiss on the hand can help ease your child’s separation anxiety and be a nice way for each of you to be comforted. Two books that tackle this subject are: “The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn and “Daniel Goes to School” adapted by Becky Friedman.
No. 5: Don’t turn around
Finally, if your child does experience some anxiety and starts to cry, resist the urge to turn around and comfort him. You have chosen a preschool that you are comfortable with and they have experienced staff to handle these situations. Leaving when your child is crying or even kicking and screaming is not easy, but staying only makes separating more difficult, encourages more outbursts and could cause your child to lose confidence that they can do this without you.
Most teachers or directors will happily snap a picture or send a quick email or text to you a few minutes later to let you know that your child is fine and to set your mind at ease.
Kristi Collins, C.D., is the director of Good Shepherd Lutheran Preschool in Biloxi. Reach her at (228) 388-4720 or visit www.goodshepherdlutheranpreschool.com.