Starting preschool is an exciting time for children and parents. Making the transition from spending time at home to being in a group setting can be a struggle for even the most social and agreeable little ones. If you’re about to enroll your child at a local child care center, here are four ways to sufficiently prepare to ensure the change in schedule is seamless. 

4 Ways to Prepare Your Little One for Preschool

1. Tour In Advance

For many children, going to a new place without the comfort of their parents can be intimidating. To curb anxiety and inspire excitement, plan a tour of the preschool or daycare facility. Point out the fun activities they’ll be participating in and introduce your child to their teachers and caretakers, so the place feels familiar on their first day. 

2. Maintain Morning & Evening Schedules

Changing your child’s schedule entirely can cause changes in moods and may increase the likelihood of a tantrum. Continue your typical morning rituals and bedtime routines so they still feel grounded. By having that bonding time and eating breakfast together, your preschooler will feel at ease. 

3. Don’t Build Things Up Too Far in Advance

While it may be tempting to start talking about preschool well in advance, resist the temptation to overprepare and make the change in schedule a big deal. Instead, start discussions a few weeks before their start date. This way, they’ll be excited but won’t feel pressure.

4. Plan Activities to Improve Motor Skills

Preschool is a great way for your child to get used to the classroom environment and socializing with other kids. To ensure your preschooler can participate in all the fun activities that often take place in daycare, focus on honing their motor skills at home. Spend time making crafts or playing ball and active games so they can easily transition. 

If you’re looking for a trustworthy daycare for your little one, First Steps Southbury Day Care and Learning Center has been serving the greater Southbury, CT, area for over 30 years. As a leading child care center, they specialize in nurturing and educating children ages eight weeks to 10 years old. Call them today at (203) 264-3735 to schedule a tour. For more information on their beautiful grounds and their enriching approach to preschool, explore their website.