Each and every year, moms everywhere start to mentally prepare themselves for their toddler’s first day of pre-school.
This is my year…
For the past four years, my son has been by my side, as I work remotely. Fast-forward to the year 2020, when the next school year starts and my oldest begins middle school my youngest will begin a new chapter in his life too: Pre-school is! It’s a milestone that felt as though it was so far away but pre-school here we come!
Lately, I’ve been putting more thought on how I can prepare my son for his first day of pre-school. You would think that I’d be as calm as a cucumber since this is not my first rodeo, right? If you answered “Yes” you’re not the only way because I thought so so but I’ve realized that the number of children a mom has doesn’t make the first day of anything any easier. Each child and experience is unique. While it’s a bittersweet feeling for me it’s my responsibility to ensure that my son is as ready as he can be and I ease him into a new environment and routine.
How can moms help their soon-to-be pre-schooler with the transition?
- Talk to them about it. Ask them questions. Answer any questions they may have.
- Read to them (in general) but also specifically books that focus on all things pre-school
- Go over taking turns and sharing classmates
- Discuss the importance of not touching others nor allowing others to touch them…and to speak up if/when
- Go over the basic necessities: undressing and dressing on their own to use the bathroom, wiping, washing hands etc.
- Have them work on saying his or her first name and last name
- Show them how to hold a pencil correctly
- Work on holding and using a kid-safety scissor
- Have them practice writing their first name
- Count to 10 together
- Go over colors and shapes
- Sing the alphabet
- Teach them how to practice patience and work on their listening skills
- Practice putting on and taking off their backpacks
Working on pre-school preparation tasks will help both mom and child feel ready for a new chapter in their lives. Time runs at rapid speed in the world of motherhood. One day it’s the first day of pre-school and then, with a blink of an eye, it’s already graduation day. You’ll see how quickly and smoothly you and your little one will adjust to pre-school.
I will leave you with this pro-tip use waterproof mascara for the first day of pre-school. If you’re like me then there will be a water work spectacular as soon as I drop my little boy off and get in the car.
Is your child starting pre-school this upcoming school year? If so, what are some ways you’re preparing?
