Although preschool is a positive experience in a child’s life, it can be difficult for a parent to know when their child is ready to begin a children’s education program. Children should have developed certain basic skills and traits before they start going to a day care center on a regular basis. If you’re not sure whether your child is prepared for this experience, keep the following points in mind.

3 Traits That Indicate a Child Is Ready for Preschool

1. Independence

No, a young child shouldn’t be as independent as an adolescent. They should, however, be able to focus on basic activities for short periods of time — five to 10 minutes, for instance — without an adult supervising them every step of the way. At your child’s day care center, they may play games, participate in arts and craft projects, or complete simple assignments, like spelling their name on paper several times to practice penmanship. They should be able to listen to directions, then complete these tasks without constant help.

2. Physical Readiness

Before you enroll your child in preschool, they should be potty-trained. This may not be necessary for infant care programs, but it is for older children. Your child should also possess the stamina to stay awake and alert throughout the day. Even if the program includes nap time, your child may still participate in activities that could be draining.

3. Expressiveness

Your child may need to ask adults who aren’t you or your spouse for assistance during their time at a child care center. Sometimes they’ll need further instruction to complete an activity, and sometimes they may need help with a more basic task, like tying their shoes. Either way, they should be comfortable asking for help when they need it.

Luckily, by spending more time in an enriching, social environment, your child will continue to develop the traits they need to thrive in their program, and in life.

Looking for a preschool in the Brookline, MA area? Get in touch with Tiny World Child Care. They offer programs for everyone from infants to children in pre-K. They give families throughout the community a safe place for their children to develop emotionally, socially, and intellectually. Visit them online to learn more about their programs, or call (617) 232-0115.