Many parents worry about how to ensure their child will thrive in education, and this can be difficult to predict. There are ways to ensure your child will make the most of preschool, however, and a positive preschool experience is the perfect basis for an enjoyable and beneficial school life. Whatever your child’s age or educational experience, there are a few things you can do to help starting preschool go smoothly.
Set a sleep routine with your child. Preschoolers need between eleven and thirteen hours of sleep each night, and having a routine means your child is much more likely to get their full amount without everyone becoming stressed and upset. Start the set the routine as early as possible, so your child has time to get used to it. Many children will rebel against bedtime, but stick to your plan and soon putting your child to sleep will be both regular and enjoyable for both of you.
Make your home school-friendly. Set up a desk or area where your child can do any homework they may be set, or you can help them with areas where they are struggling. Allow them to decorate and arrange this themselves if possible, with their own choice of pens and notebooks. This will help them to feel that the area is their own.
Attend any sessions which allow your child to meet their class or teacher beforehand, and reassure your child that you will pick them up later (use a specific time, if your child can tell the time, or “after snack” etc). Be supportive and excited about your childs first day, and don’t let them see your anxiety or sadness. Your child is likely to be bewildered, and will use you to judge how they should be feeling. Lastly, talk to the classteacher and offer help if you can. Knowing what your child is up too will help!
