Preschool Preparation

It is generally thought that children who get ready earlier have a higher level of preparedness.    As a result, they score significantly higher just a few years later and most even end up making more money as adults. Preparation for preschool goes far beyond mere research and planning.

Now, there is no need to cover everything at once but focus on what is most important.  Begin by building the child’s reading readiness. This way, when children start to read at school they find the task is that much easier and fun. See below for the top tips to prepare your child for preschool.

Identifying letters and numbers

Start your kids learning the letters used in their name, together with the common vowels like A, E, and O. They don’t need to know all of the letters in the alphabet, just the basics. Also, you may teach your child simple numeracy beginning by counting his or her age. A good way of achieving these is by using flashcards, alphabet books, or number magnets on the fridge.

Introduce the concept of books

Make your child know how books work. Let them recognize what it consists of – the cover, the contents, the author. Give simple instructions and rhyming sounds as you lead them to turn the pages while pointing from left to right to read. This will give your child a sense of what reading is actually about. Moreover, you will discover which topics will excite or frustrate your kids. This information will help their teachers be able to adjust well to their interests and learning style.

Play with sounds and words

Games that focus on reading and rhyming are a handy tool for interactive learning. They build speech and sound awareness skills. Some children will be inspired if a little competition is injected into the whole affair.  Always be sure to reward a job well done. You can prepare your child for preschool by training listening and speaking skills while encouraging participation. An example of a game: name as many words as possible that rhyme with a certain word or start with a certain sound.

Encourage interaction

Gradually exposing your children to social practices before preschool will make them become more at ease with meeting new people and trying on new things. Let them join playgroups and summer workshops, or attend story hour at a community library. These types of exposure will help them perform better both academically and socially.

Getting ready to prepare your child for preschool involves many things. Along with learning letters, sounds, and numbers, children will have to negotiate new social experiences such as mingling with other kids and teachers for an entire day. Preschool is a young student’s first exposure to a formal school environment. Therefore, in order to assure an easy and smooth transition to preschool, begin preparing as early as you can.