Community Education - current class catalogs Families - Fall 2019 | Page 21

Preschool prep
How to prepare your
child for preschool
Starting preschool is one of many exciting milestones
of childhood. Anoka-Hennepin Schools Preschool
teachers and staff are excited to meet your child and
eager to help your family make this a successful and
smooth transition.
Sarah Strate, Anoka-Hennepin Schools Preschool teacher,
says, “By taking some time to prepare your child and
yourself, the transition can go smoothly for your whole
family.” Keep your efforts low-key. If you make too big a deal
out of this milestone, your child may end up being more
worried than excited. Here are some ideas to help your
young student prepare for a successful year in preschool:
• S
 tart bedtime and morning/afternoon routines a few
weeks before school starts to give your child time to
adapt to the new routines.
• R
 ead stories about going to school to help your
child gain confidence and information about the new
experience. Talk about the changes that school will
bring to your child’s typical daily routines.
• D
 rive by your child’s preschool site so it becomes a
familiar place. Talk about the fun experiences your child
will have at preschool.
These tips are also great to keep in mind
and practice whether dropping your child
off at a daycare, or with a family member
or friend who is lending a hand. Setting
routines and expectations early helps instill
school readiness skills in toddlers or even
babies well before preschool.
Finally, remember the importance of
attending your child’s preschool open
house. “Going to the open house is an
important step in helping preschoolers
feel comfortable in the classroom;” Strate
recommends. “When your child sees you
talking with the teaching staff and being
in their new classroom with them, it helps
them feel more comfortable and ready to
start their first day on their own.”
• L  et your child help get ready for the first day of
school by choosing which clothes to wear and backpack
to use during the school year.
• A
 pproach the year with confidence so your child will,
too. Listen if your child has doubts or fears. Talk with
the classroom teaching staff if you have concerns.
• A
 lways say goodbye when you leave and assure your
child that you will be there when school is over. A family
photo in your child’s pocket or a small, familiar object
from home can help your child feel connected to you
and more comfortable with separation.
www.ahschools.us/preschool
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