Preschool is an important stage in your child’s life. This is the stage where they begin to develop important skills such as following instructions which are crucial as they go into kindergarten. Knowing what the best age to start preschool is not that complicated if you know what signs to look for. Some key indicators are quite easy to see while some are a bit more hidden.
There are no specific checklists of must-have skills that will tell you exactly when to send your child to preschool. However, there are things to look for to decide whether or not your toddler is ready for the new challenge.
They are comfortable being alone
Separation anxiety is a normal feeling for toddlers when they get separated from their parents for the first time. If you sense that your child is more comfortable and willing to spend some time away from you, then it will be less difficult for them to adjust to preschool. One way to test if they are ready is to let them stay with a family member or a babysitter for a day. This will tell you if being away for a longer period of time will be a problem or not for your toddler.
They are completely potty-trained
Certain preschools require that toddlers be potty-trained or at least in the process of being trained. This is important for your child to have an enjoyable time at preschool. Preschoolers should also be a little more independent and self-sufficient. They must have some knowledge of self-care, like washing their hands, putting on their coat and shoes, or knowing how to fix their toys.
They are able to follow instructions
Another way to determine the best age to send your child to preschool is when they are able to follow simple directions or instructions from adults. There are no strict rules in pre-school but kids are expected to follow basic directions. They are normally asked to wait patiently in line for their turn, follow snack hours, clean up, or any other simple tasks.
If you feel that your child has challenges following these directions, you can start practicing at home. Give them small and easy tasks they can do – such as setting up plates on the table or making their bed in the morning. Pick simple chores your child can follow at home daily – this will help prepare them for preschool.
They are able to interact well with other children
In preschool, there will be a lot of interaction. To know if your child is ready for preschool, they must be able to get along with other children. Your child should be comfortable around other children and not easily upset by other children their age.
Preschool is the time when they start to make new friends and enjoy playing with other children. It is important that your child is comfortable having to share their toys with others.
They are able to communicate easily
Not all three-year-olds are able to speak clearly. However, prior to starting preschool, your child should be able to communicate easily so that others comprehend what your child is saying. Likewise, children should be able to hear and understand what is being said.
Your child’s ability to speak proficiently is a very good indicator that they are ready for preschool. They should be able to use simple phrases and sentences of at least 3-5 words. You can practice with your child by asking them to describe an event that happened in the morning, such as a walk in the park.
If your child is having trouble speaking or understanding, you should speak to your pediatrician. There are many options today such as speech therapists who aide in the development of these key motor skills.
Preschool is an important milestone in your child’s life – it is very rewarding and educational. A child’s development differs at certain rates; so if you feel that your child may not be able to handle preschool yet, do not panic. You can always start the following year. Practice makes a lot of difference. Have some time with your child to help them prepare for preschool.
Once you are comfortable that your child is ready to start preschool, you can start exploring different preschools in your area. Contact LaunchPad Early Education for more information.