Back to School Tips for Parents of Pre Schoolers

Schools up and down the valley will be welcoming kids back to their classrooms in the next couple of weeks. For some, it will be their first time in a classroom ever!

Parentfurther.com has some great tips aimed at starting pre schoolers off on the right foot:

1. If you and your child have fallen out of your bedtime routine this summer, get back into a solid routine! A week before the first day of school is a good time frame in which to begin.

2. Plan and shop for healthy breakfasts and lunches a week in advance. This will save you precious time and prevent much stress in the long run!

3. Accidents happen! Prepare a change of clothes in advance, and bring it with you on the first day of school for your child’s teacher to keep in the classroom.

4. If possible, arrange play dates with other parents of preschoolers, or find out if your local library or community center offers free events for young children. Spending time with other children will help your child’s social and emotional development and prepare her for the school environment.

5. Connect with other parents and students on the first day back to preschool. Introduce yourself and your child. Bring a show-and-tell item to break the ice, or a snack to share with the class.

6. Be prepared for tears. Smile, stay positive, and maintain a calm demeanor when your child is having a hard time saying goodbye. If you start to panic, your child will pick up on your doubt.

7. Support early literacy by reading to your child every day. As she grows older, ask that she read to you.

8. Keep books everywhere—in the car, in the kitchen, and anywhere you spend time. Make special weekend trips to the library to freshen up the collection.

9. Parent involvement in school is important—even in preschool! Talk to your child’s preschool teacher (or child-care provider) regularly about his educational and social development.

10. Preschools and childcare centers often host parent and family activities; attend these as often as possible to help your child begin bonding to the educational system.

Get more information about preparing your children for pre school here.