Tips for Easing a Child into Early Childhood Education

In just a few short days my oldest daughter will be starting her second year of Preschool, also known as Early Childhood Education. Living in a school district with a very rigorous academic schedule, I understand how important it is for her to get the earliest start possible to prepare her for the years of education ahead.

　　As a stay at home mom, I worried, probably a little too much, about letting my “baby” out of the nest so to speak. Having spent the first three years of her life solely in my care, the idea of her being thrust into a world of little people, schedules and new adults managing her care, scared me quite a bit.
However, with a little bit of research and taking the extra time to prepare, I found three simple tips for easing children (and parents) into Early Childhood Education.
Education Starts at Home- You’ve taught your child how to eat with a fork, drink from a cup and use the potty making you the first teacher your child has ever had. You can also begin teaching your child to prepare for school with simple number games, reading bedtime stories, identifying objects in the grocery store. Every little bit of teaching makes your child that much more prepared for school outside of the home.
Meet the Teacher- If your son/daughter is nervous about the first day of school, ease those fears by introducing your child to his/her teacher a few times before the first day of school. This process could start with a short phone conversation, a walk through of the classroom or even a lunch invitation at your home.
Make it Special- Nothing gets a child more excited about the new school year than shopping for back to school gear. Set aside a special day to take your child shopping for their first backpack, clothes and basic school supplies.
With those simple tips, your child will be excited and ready for their first year of Early Childhood Education. The process may even help ease your own worries about letting your child spread their wings for the first time.
I’m curious to know: What advice do you have for moms prepping for preschool? KinderCarewill choose one lucky participant who comments and make donation in their name to the Reach Out And Readchapter of their choice!