Preschool Education

From LoveToKnow Kids

Preschool education can actually begin at home, and even if you never formally enroll your child in a preschool, there are still many educational activities you can share with your kids.

preschool education

When to Begin

You might not realize it, but there are many learning activities that you can share with your child every day. In most cases, he won't even be able to tell that he is learning. When most people think about preschool, they typically think of kids ages three to five. Preschool education can actually begin when your child is still a baby. Every time you play with your child, sing to him, and read him books, you are in essence educating him. As your child grows, his desire for learning will increase. In fact, you may hear the words how, what, and why quite often. Your child has a natural curiosity, and it is up to you to answer his questions.

  • Look for learning opportunities in everyday activities, such as driving the car, shopping, reading books, etc.
  • Point out new objects to your child, and name those objects to help her build her vocabulary.
  • Count anything and everything with your child, such as the cookies on her plate, the dogs in the yard, and the crayons in the box.
  • Talk in descriptive phrases, such as "There is a blue car", "The pink flower smells great", and "I like your purple shirt".
  • Point out shapes of common objects. Say things like, "You have a round plate", "That sign is a rectangle", and "Your tent is a triangle".

Finding a Preschool

Looking for a good preschool for your child? A preschool education should involve caring teachers, interesting lessons, and fun activities. While most preschools will typically feature all of these, you still need to find a preschool that is a good fit for your child.

  • Ask other parents about recommendations for preschools. Ask them they why they like the preschool. Get the specifics regarding their recommendations.
  • Plan an unannounced visit to the preschool. Check out the overall condition of the facility, both inside and out. What activities are going on? How much supervision do you see? What are the kids doing?
  • You will probably need to make an appointment to talk to the preschool administrator, so have a few questions prepared:
    • What are the rates?
    • What are the qualifications of the teachers?
    • What is the teacher/student ratio?
    • What first aid training has the staff had?
    • What is the daily schedule of activities?
    • How is discipline handled?
    • What, if any, curriculum is used?

Getting Ready

The time has come. You've chosen a preschool, and your child's first day is fast approaching. How can you prepare her for the big day? Even the most excited child can have some reservations when it comes to leaving for preschool.

  • Let her help you buy the school supplies and any new clothing as well.
  • Take her to the school a few days before she begins so that she can meet her teacher and observe the kids. Talk with her about what she is seeing, and show her where she will eat, take naps, put her backpack, etc.
  • On the day before school starts, help her choose her clothes, and lay out all of the items she will wear or take to school.
  • Be sure she gets plenty of rest the night before.
  • Wake her a little earlier than usual so the two of you can share a special breakfast together before you leave for school.
  • When it's time to say goodbye, remain upbeat and positive even if she gets a little teary-eyed. Hug her, kiss her, and tell her you'll see her in the afternoon, then leave. If you are upset, keep those feelings to yourself. When you pick her up at the end of the day, be just as upbeat and spend time talking with her about her day.

Preschool Education Activities

Whether you choose to enroll your child in a preschool or not, there are still many wonderful preschool education activities that you can share with him. You can enroll in preschool programs, such as Gymboree. Don't forget to check out the following Internet sites for some great ideas, worksheets, and activities as well:


 


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