Walton Pre-School

Preparing Your Child for Pre School

Things you can do to help your child start Pre-school

Prepare for Preschool

Starting Preschool can be a super busy time for both parents and children. It can be hard to know what to expect on the first day so to help be prepared, here are some tips to help your child get ready for their big day:

- Talk to your child about what they will be doing at preschool. Explain that they will be learning new things, making new friends, and doing lots and lots of playing.
- Show them their school uniform before they start and talk about how all the children will look the same
- Pack a healthy lunch and snacks for them to take to school.
- On the first day, drop them off with a big smile and a hug. Let them know that you will be back to pick them up later.
- Read books about going to school together.
- Practice saying goodbye. Have some short ‘goodbyes’ where you leave for a few minutes and come back. This will help them get used to the idea of being away from you for a little while.
- Play games like ‘school’ or ‘teachers’ with them. This will help them understand what they can expect from their time at preschool.
- We know that starting preschool can be a big step, however, if you think about and talk about what to expect beforehand, it can help ease any anxiety they (and you!) may be feeling.
- Get them involved in packing their own bag with a few of their favourite things to take to school with them.
- Do some ‘practice runs’ drop-offs and pick-ups from childcare or a friend’s house. This will help them get used to the routine of being dropped off and picked up from somewhere other than home.
- Talk about all the new friends they will make at preschool and the fun activities they will do together. Encourage them to tell you all about their day when they come home.
- Visit the preschool together before their first day. This will help them familiarize themselves with the surroundings and meet their new teachers.