7 June 2023

10 tips to prepare your child

By Cannons Creek Independent School

10 tips to prepare your child for preschool
Sending your child off to preschool is an exciting milestone in their life, and as a parent, you
want to ensure they have the best possible experience. To help you prepare your child for this
new adventure, we have put together a guide with practical tips and strategies:

1. Promote social and emotional well-being: Help your child feel secure and confident
by fostering a supportive environment. Encourage them to try new things without fear of
judgment or shame, and provide reassurance and guidance when needed.

2. Teach and model emotional intelligence (EQ): Emphasize the importance of qualities
like warmth, affection, and empathy. Teach your child to recognize and manage their
emotions, enabling them to navigate social interactions effectively.

3. Recognize effort and hard work: Foster a growth mindset by praising your child's effort
and hard work, rather than solely focusing on their successes. This approach instills a
sense of value for the process of learning and encourages resilience.

4. Encourage independence: Help your child develop independence by gradually
increasing their responsibilities. Allow them to take on age-appropriate tasks and simple
chores, which build confidence and promote self-reliance.

5. Establish routines: Establishing consistent routines for meals, bedtimes, and daily
activities helps your child feel secure and provides a structured framework for their day.
Routines also foster a sense of predictability and stability.

6. Promote cooperation: Prepare your child for transitions and cooperation by providing
warnings, incentivizing positive behaviors, offering choices within appropriate limits, and
encouraging teamwork. Make learning fun and engaging through interactive activities.

7. Manage screen time: Create a healthy balance by limiting your child's screen time.
Encourage alternative activities such as outdoor play, reading, and creative endeavors to
promote their overall development.

8. Teach responsibility and consequences: Guide your child to understand the concept
of responsibility and the appropriate consequences for their actions. Encourage them to
make independent choices and learn from their experiences.

9. Embrace the power of play: Recognize that play is a natural and essential part of
learning. Allow your child ample time for unstructured play, both alone and with other
children. Avoid overscheduling their afternoons with structured activities.

10. Foster a love for reading: Make reading a daily habit by reading to your child and
engaging in discussions about the stories. Encourage them to share their own stories,
thoughts, and ideas.

By following these guidelines, you can help prepare your child for a positive and enriching
preschool experience. Remember, this is an exciting time of growth and exploration for both you
and your child, so embrace the journey and enjoy the moments together.

Written by Mrs Sharon Moore (HOD: Cannons Creek Pre-Primary School), in consultation with
various sources, and based on her first-hand experience.

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