From the moment your child is born, you likely envision a whole future for them that encompasses their first steps, their first words, and their first day off at preschool. While there is no right age for them to begin schooling, three or four years old is a common starting point for many. However, since everyone grows at different rates, the following guide looks at ways of telling if your son or daughter is truly ready for this new experience. 

How to Decide If Your Child Is Ready for Preschool

1. Note Their Energy Levels

Most toddlers will need to continue nap time for a few years and can get cranky without that intermediary snooze. However, it’s important to watch your child closely as you move through the day. If they run out of steam a couple of hours after breakfast, that after-lunch preschool nap might not come soon enough. As a result, they won’t have enough energy to truly participate in daily activities and retain knowledge for the future.

2. Consider Separation Anxiety

How often do you leave your child alone with another caregiver? If the two of you are practically joined at the hip and the only other authority figure they spend time with is their other parent, making the jump to preschool can be hard. Make sure your little one is prepared to spend hours a day with a teacher by introducing them to babysitters or taking them to playdates.

3. Evaluate Their Self-Sufficiency

While your preschooler will still be under the watchful eye of a vigilant, responsible adult, it’s much different to be in a classroom full of children with their own individual requirements than to be the center of your attention. Therefore, make sure your child can take care of their basic needs without being prompted. Your child should be potty-trained and in the habit of washing their hands or eating a snack without help.

If your little one is ready for the next phase of their childhood, consider The Preschool at Discovery in Gilbert, AZ. Their trusted team has over 50 years of combined experience and they teach a faith-centered curriculum that will have your son or daughter feeling safe, loved, and supported. Through their play-based, teacher-guided activities, they allow children to learn without even knowing it. To dive into their program descriptions and learn more about their Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP) teaching style, visit the website. Call (480) 999-4245 to speak with a staff member.