So, you have found a great preschool that you think will help your child learn valuable life skills while also enriching them academically. And now, you are waiting eagerly for the day your little one takes their first step into a new chapter of their life. But are they prepared to do that? Are you prepared?

Going to preschool can be an overwhelming experience, not just for your child but also for you. For a young child who has never been away from their parents for a long time, being in an unfamiliar environment, surrounded by unknown faces, can be a cause of anxiety. You, too, might find yourself overcome with mixed emotions at the thought of your baby being away from you for so long.

This is why it is important that you prepare your child for that transition so that their first day and every day after that is a positive experience. Here are a few things you need to do:

• Visit the school before the first day

Visiting the preschool before their big first day can help your child become familiar with the settings and the people in it. When you go on tours to prospective schools, take them with you, if possible. Also, once you choose a school, you can arrange a tour that allows your child to meet the teachers, visit the classrooms and the playground, and so on.

• Create a routine

Starting a few weeks before their first day, get your child used to going to school. Wake them up early in the morning. Get them to take part in regular preschool activities, such as reading, drawing, and so on. You should also keep to their school bedtime, which will help them sleep and wake up early.

• Use pretend play

Create your own “school” at home. Pretend that you are the teacher, parents, or child. Work on some common routines, such as saying goodbye, reading stories, and putting on your coat, among others. Take turns acting them out. This will help your child become more excited for what’s to come and reassure them that preschool is a good place.

• Get your child excited about the school materials

One of the best parts about going to school is the wonderful array of materials that your child gets to use or play with. You can, therefore, use them to make the transition more seamless. Backpack, lunch bag, and stationery are a few things you can include.

When your child begins preschool, the first few weeks will be a major adjustment. Don’t be worried if things go wrong, such as your child throwing a tantrum, crying, or refusing to leave you. These are completely normal experiences that most parents go through. Yes, it will be difficult but once your child gets used to the routine, things will gradually get much better.

Looking for the best preschool in San Jose? Precious Moments is one of the top-rated preschools in the area. With a team of experienced and skilled teachers, we are committed to the growth and development of our students. To make sure that every child matures socially, emotionally, and cognitively at Precious Moments, we have created a fun, nurturing, and enriching learning environment with a great STEAM curriculum.

Reach out to us to know more about Precious Moments Childcare.