Getting Ready for Preschool: Easy Tips for a Happy Start
Starting preschool is a big and exciting step! As parents, we all want to help our toddlers feel ready and happy as they begin this new journey. At Kia Mena Montessori, we know this change can feel both exciting and a little scary. But don’t worry — we’re here to help make it smoother for you and your child.
What Is Preschool Like?
Preschool is a fun place where kids play, learn, and make new friends. They might paint with their fingers, build towers with blocks, or listen to a teacher read a story. It’s full of things that help kids grow and learn while having fun.
To make preschool feel less scary, let your child see what it’s like before their first day. Visit the classroom, meet the teachers, and take a little tour. Seeing everything ahead of time can help your child feel more comfortable and excited.
Ways to Explore Preschool Before It Starts
- Take a virtual tour: Many schools like Kia Mena Montessori give online tours. Watch together and talk about what you see.
- Meet the teachers: If you can, introduce your child to one or two teachers before school starts.
- Attend a play day: Some schools offer fun events where kids can play and meet other children.
Helping Your Toddler with Feelings
New things can make kids a little nervous. But when you add a positive attitude and a bit of fun, your child will feel more ready to go!
Easy Ways to Support Their Feelings
- Talk about preschool: Share happy stories from your own school days. Talk about games, songs, and making friends.
- Pretend play: Turn home into a pretend preschool. Role-play putting on a backpack, saying hello to teachers, or sitting for snack time.
- Read preschool books: Try reading fun stories like “Maisy Goes to Preschool” or “The Kissing Hand.”
Getting into a Good Routine
A clear routine helps kids feel safe and know what to expect. Getting used to a school-friendly schedule before preschool starts can make mornings much easier.
Simple Routine Tips
- Practice morning habits: Wake up, get dressed, and eat breakfast at times that match the school schedule.
- Make bedtime cozy: Try a bedtime story and soft lighting to help your child wind down.
- Match meal times: Practice having lunch and snacks the same time your child will at school.
Teaching Your Child to Be Independent
Preschool helps toddlers learn new skills, including how to do things on their own. You can practice these at home, too!
Independence Boosters
- Let them dress themselves: Choose clothes that are easy to put on and take off.
- Toilet time practice: Help your child feel confident using the bathroom on their own.
- Practice lunch skills: Let your child try opening their snack packs or water bottle.
Helping with Social Skills
Preschool is all about learning to play and work with others. Teaching your child simple social skills will help them make friends and have fun.
How to Build Social Skills
- Play dates: Let your child play with other children so they can learn to take turns and share.
- Practice taking turns: Board games and group play can teach important skills like waiting and listening.
- Talk about feelings: Ask your child about their feelings and help them name and understand emotions.
Play at Home Like Preschool
You can bring preschool learning into your home by playing games that teach basic school ideas.
Fun Learning Ideas
- ABC songs: Sing the alphabet together and point out letters on signs or books.
- Count things: Count blocks, steps, or snacks together to make numbers fun.
- Shape hunt: Find circles, squares, and triangles around the house!
Getting Supplies Ready
Make preschool feel real by getting everything ready ahead of time. This also helps your child feel excited and confident!
Smart Prep Tips
- Visit the school together: Make it feel like a fun trip!
- Gather supplies: Let your child help pick out and label their backpack, water bottle, and clothes.
- Try on school clothes: Have a dress-up day at home so they get used to their outfits.
Welcome to the First Week
The beginning of preschool can take some getting used to. That’s okay! Here are tips to help your child feel settled.
Easy First Week Ideas
- Keep goodbyes short: Say “see you soon” with a smile and keep it upbeat.
- Make a goodbye routine: Try a goodbye hug, wave, or special handshake.
- Talk to the teacher: Let them know how your child is doing and ask for help if you need extra support.
Talk About Their Day
Talking to your child every day about preschool helps you stay connected and notice how they are feeling.
Ways to Talk and Listen
- Ask fun questions: Try asking things like, “What made you laugh today?”
- Talk about feelings: Help your child share how they felt during the day.
- Celebrate wins: Cheer for every small win, whether it’s putting on shoes or playing nicely with others.
Handling Ups and Downs
It’s normal if some days are harder than others. Keep things calm, and remember that your child is learning and growing every day.
Support Along the Way
- Watch for changes: Notice if your child is extra tired, quiet, or moody — they might need more comfort.
- Be patient: Change takes time. Let your child go at their own pace.
- Ask for help: Talk to teachers or ask a child expert if you need more support.
In Closing
With a little planning and lots of love, you and your toddler can enjoy this exciting step together! Preschool is a special time filled with play, learning, and smiles. At Kia Mena Montessori, we’re happy to be part of your child’s journey.
Helpful Resources
- Zero to Three – Tips on child development from baby to preschool.
- NAEYC – Great advice on early childhood education.
- PBS Parents – Learning games and guides just for preschoolers.
- Khan Academy – Simple online learning for young kids.
Ready to learn more about the Montessori way? Visit Kia Mena Montessori to see how we help toddlers love learning every day!