September is new start time for pupils and students. But it’s also a time for new and important beginnings for under-five’s too.
For most preschool age children, beginning preschool or nursery education is not the first time they will have experienced time away from Mum or Dad. But getting used to a longer session or day in a new setting can still be a challenge. Children can settle more easily when a few simple tried and tested tips are followed. Here are a few:
- Your child should have a few trial sessions, staying part of the day/session, with you staying too at first.
- Make sure staff have all the essential information they need about your child.
- Ask if your child can take a familiar favourite toy/cuddly toy with him/her if you think this will help.
- If your child has a friend attending the same preschool/nursery then make staff aware of this existing friendship.
- ‘Talk up’ the preschool activities you know your child especially enjoys eg water play, playing instruments etc.
- Don’t show anxiety yourself at leaving your child somewhere new – he/she will pick up on this and become anxious too.
- Always ask your child what they did that day and admire and display any models or art work they may bring home!
- Encourage new friendships by getting to know some other parents and their children.
- Speak to your child’s keyworker regularly for updates on your child’s settling- in progress and voice concerns if you have any.
- Always aim to be on time to collect your child.
- Remember all children are different and settle at different rates into new routines. Be sensitive to your child’s individual needs and allow them time to get used to this new stage in their lives at their own pace.
Need 2 Know’s ‘Preschool Choices: A parent’s guide’ describes how young children develop through their early years and how the right developmentally enhancing experiences and activities can influence that development. It also offers information, tips and ideas for choosing suitable preschool activities and early years education options.
The post New term for preschoolers too appeared first on Need 2 Know Blog.
