Your child’s early years are critical to their social development – and preschool programs can help. In preschool, your child will interact daily with other children and build the essential social skills, jump-starting the rest of their emotional and social growth. The following are just a few of the ways your child will grow in preschool. 

5 Ways Preschool Helps Children Build Interpersonal Skills

1. Sharing

Young children naturally tend to be protective of their belongings, and it takes time to learn to share. In preschool, your child will spend all day with other children, sharing craft supplies, toys, and snacks. Preschoolers learn to communicate their wants and be patient. 

2. Self-Expression

Preschool programs will help your child express emotions in a healthy way. Teachers encourage them to verbalize their feelings of frustration instead of acting out. As they practice talking about their emotions, your child will be better able to identify and understand the concept of emotions.  

3. Empathy

As your child learns about their feelings, they’ll be able to recognize how body language, facial expressions, and words convey the feelings of their peers. Preschool is full of opportunities for your child to see models of empathy that show them the value of kindness and helping others. The inclusive, welcoming preschool setting will help your child that they have something in common with everyone, no matter how different.  

4. Listening

Storytime does more than entertain children. Listening to a teacher read aloud or provide instructions for activities cultivates your child’s comprehension, putting them on track to succeed in kindergarten and primary education. They’ll also develop listening skills by playing and talking with their peers. 

5. Collaboration

Who said learning isn’t fun? Whether building a castle out of blocks or working on a group art project, games and activities help your little one grasp the importance of teamwork – a skill that will be essential later in life. 

Children learn social skills best in a supportive and nurturing environment like Mendon Child Care Center. With locations in Mendon and Victor, NY, their team of early childhood education specialists has crafted a preschool program that will give your child a strong foundation in the skills necessary for success. They also provide care for infants and toddlers, and have after-school offerings for children up to age eight. Their staff is dedicated to flexible scheduling and open communication with parents. For more information on their programs, visit their website or call (585) 624-2337.