Entering Kindergarten is a monumental event in the life of a child. It involves leaving the protection and shelter of home life, as well as relinquishing the constant love and attention given to them by their parents. Entering Kindergarten means that a child must now face a world full of new experiences. While some may be exhilarating, others may very well be quite intimidating.
Therefore, it is imperative that, for your child's developmental wellbeing, you prepare them as much as possible for the challenges they will encounter as they enter Kindergarten.
It's Tough For Everyone Involved
As we mentioned above, entering Kindergarten is tough on kids, but it is also a difficult time for parents as well. After all, when your little one enters Kindergarten you too relinquish many things. For one, you are no longer solely in charge of their safety and must trust strangers to look out for your child's best interest.
Everyone knows that preschoolers, between the ages of three and five, need large doses of their parent's love. But they also need ample opportunities to explore the world, receive clear discipline, and experience interacting with other children and new environments; Kindergarten provides these opportunities in spades.
So how can you prepare your child so that the transition is as smooth as possible?
Preparing Your Child
Before they enter Kindergarten, begin taking your child to parks and other venues where they may come into contact with other children. It is imperative that they get used to the presence of other children. You see, kids of Kindergarten age are used to being the center of the universe, so it is necessary that they gradually understand that there are other people with equal needs.
Convey the assurance that mom and dad aren't going anywhere and that you will never leave them. Whenever you drop-off your child, it is essential that you say goodbye and tell them that you will see them very soon. Moreover, never cry when you drop them off! This only shows your child that crying about your separation is an acceptable response.
Once you have settled on a particular Kindergarten, take your child around to the school and have them get acclimated to the place.
Establish routines for grooming and getting dressed. We also recommend that you set specific playtimes and nap times. This way, your child will not be entirely unprepared for the type of structure that preschool introduces.
Introduce the concept of responsibility. An excellent way to do this is to teach your child to pick up their toys after they are done playing with them. Remember that part of the education they will receive in Kindergarten is based on discipline.
Establish a deep emotional bond with your child. Use every opportunity you get to develop your child's emotional security. Your child will miss you, that is virtually guaranteed. However, if you establish a deep emotional bond with them before they begin their schooling, you can ensure that they get over any potential anxiety that may arise.