Getting Ready for Preschool: 10 Easy Tips for Parents
Welcome to a Big New Adventure
Starting preschool is a big step for your child—and for you too! At Kia Mena Montessori in Beckenham, London, we know how exciting and a little scary this time can be. Whether you’re packing lunchboxes or choosing tiny backpacks, we’re here to help with simple tips to make sure your child is ready for preschool.
Why Preschool Is So Important
Preschool isn’t just about playtime. It helps children:
- Make new friends and learn to play kindly
- Understand their feelings and how to manage them
- Think and learn in fun new ways
- Build good habits that help them in school and life
If you’re curious about all the benefits, you can learn more about social and emotional development in young children.
Helping Your Child Feel Ready
Get to Know the Preschool
- Visit the school together. Walk around the classrooms and outdoor play areas. This helps your child feel comfortable.
- Go to orientation day. Meet their teacher and maybe some new friends before school officially starts.
- Take a virtual tour if you can’t visit in person. Many schools have online videos to explore.
Getting familiar with the setting can make the first day feel less scary. You can also learn ways to ease first-day preschool worries.
Practice Being Independent
- Let your child dress themselves. Zipping up coats and putting on shoes builds confidence.
- Practice mealtime skills. Eating from a lunchbox or opening snack containers are small but important steps.
- Offer choices. Let them pick between two shirts or snacks. Making decisions helps them feel in control.
Talk About What to Expect
- Describe what a day might look like. Use simple stories with fun roles like “Snack Helper” or “Class Line Leader.”
- Read preschool books together. Stories like these give kids a clear picture of what to expect. Check out this helpful list of great preschool books for starting school.
Build Happy Feelings About Preschool
Use Fun and Positive Words
Call preschool an adventure! Talk about all the fun things they’ll do—like painting, singing, and playing outside.
Help With Worries
- Listen to their feelings. If they’re feeling nervous, that’s okay. Let them talk and show you care.
- Share your own happy school memories. Talking about fun things you did at school can make them feel more excited.
Do Some Easy Practice at Home
Set a School Sleep Routine
Start waking up and going to bed earlier about two weeks before school starts. This helps your child get used to the new schedule.
Try Fun Activities
Color, cut paper, and use glue sticks at home. These crafts help your child practice skills they’ll use in preschool.
Label Their Stuff
Write your child’s name on lunchboxes, jackets, and backpacks. This makes it easier for teachers to keep track of everyone’s things.
Work Together With Teachers
Start Good Communication
Say hello and introduce yourself to your child’s teacher. When parents and teachers work together, children feel more supported.
Share Helpful Information
If your child has allergies or special needs, let the staff know ahead of time. That way, they can help keep your child safe and happy.
Help Them Make Friends
Set Up a Playdate
Meet up with other kids who are going to the same preschool. Seeing a familiar face on the first day helps a lot!
Teach Kind Habits
- Practice manners. Using “please” and “thank you” shows kindness.
- Take turns. Playing board games or taking turns with toys at home makes this easier to do at preschool too.
Say Goodbye With Love
Have a Goodbye Routine
Make a short and sweet goodbye part of your drop-off. A hug, a smile, and a silly saying can make things easier.
Pick Them Up on Time
When you’re always there when you say you’ll be, your child feels safe and builds trust in the routine.
Don’t Forget About Yourself
It’s Okay to Feel All the Feelings
Parents can feel excited, nervous, and even sad—sometimes all at once! Be kind to yourself during this change.
Talk to Other Parents
Connect with families who are going through the same thing. Sharing stories and tips can help everyone feel better.
Ready, Set, Preschool!
Preschool is a big step, but it’s the beginning of an amazing journey. With patience, love, and some planning, your child will be ready to shine. If you’re looking for a nurturing and creative learning space, learn more about Kia Mena Montessori and how we support young learners every step of the way.
Now grab those tiny sneakers, pack that water bottle, and get ready for a fun-filled preschool adventure!
