How to prepare your child for preschool

Starting preschool is a big step for children—and parents! Along with a few tears, you’ll probably have a million questions: Will they be safe? Will they make friends? Will their needs be understood and met?

Our Program Manager, Linda Rolland, shares her advice about how to prepare your child for preschool—and why a collaborative, inclusive approach to your child’s early education is key.

How does preschool benefit children?

Preschool helps children develop meaningful relationships in a setting that reflects their community’s diversity. In the years before school, children learn best by engaging in play—whether that’s by themselves, with friends or alongside peers under the guidance of supportive and skilled staff.

What advice can you offer parents of children starting preschool?

My main advice to parents is this: build a good relationship with your child’s preschool educators.

If you have an Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) Provider, they can help you meet and make an informed decision about the early childhood education and care services that will best suit your family.

Once your child is enrolled, you can also ask your ECEI Provider to set up meetings between you and your child’s educators. This will give you a chance to ask questions about your child’s care.

What information should parents provide the preschool about their child’s needs?

The more information you can provide, the more they can support your child.

Your child’s educators usually want to know:

• What skills your child is currently learning at home (such as learning to use the toilet); this will help them work towards the same goals in the classroom
  
  
• What skills you would like your child to learn at preschool (such as making friends or learning school-ready skills)

Are there any resources you can recommend to families preparing for preschool?

Yes! The Working Together Agreement is a great resource.

It was developed by the Early Childhood Intervention Association to help build and establish good relationships between a family, the early education service and any ECEI staff that may visit the preschool to support your child. 

Children learn best when everyone in their life works together in a consistent way. The Working Together Agreement aims to foster a collaborative approach to your child’s early education.

 

Our Specialist Educators can help you choose the best early childhood education service for your child. To find out more contact us