Starting kindergarten/preschool is a significant milestone in a child's life. In kindergarten/preschool, children acquire essential skills that will benefit them in the future: communication, discipline, learning new information, and spending time away from their parents. However, adapting to kindergarten/preschool can be challenging for both the child and the parents. This article explores how to ensure both the moral and physiological preparation of your child for kindergarten/preschool to help them navigate this stage smoothly and without stress.
Moral preparation for kindergarten/preschool helps children feel confident and safe in a new environment. It involves developing emotional stability and social skills that will aid in adapting to new conditions. Proper preparation also fosters a positive perception of kindergarten/preschool, which is crucial for successful adaptation.
Physiological preparation is also key for a successful transition to kindergarten/preschool. A child should be able to take care of themselves independently, including:
Preparation for kindergarten/preschool starts well before the first day. Parents need to follow several basic practices to ensure a smooth transition for their child to the new environment.
Building trust between parents and the child is crucial in the adaptation process. The child needs to know that the parents are always there to support them. This can be achieved through regular conversations and creating an understanding of what will happen in kindergarten/preschool.
Example: Talk to your child about their favourite toys and explain that there will be many new toys and friends in kindergarten/preschool to play with.
It’s important to talk to your child about kindergarten/preschool in advance. Explain that it is a place where they will meet many new friends, play, and learn new exciting things. Give your child the opportunity to ask questions and answer them honestly to alleviate any fears.
Example: During a walk near the kindergarten/preschool, stop and explain that this is where they will have fun playing on the playground with other children.
Show a positive attitude toward kindergarten/preschool. If parents speak about kindergarten enthusiastically, the child will feel more confident. Share your experiences or those of older children who are already attending kindergarten/preschool and enjoying it.
Example: Share a story about how your older son or daughter found their best friends in kindergarten/preschool.
Teaching a child to express their emotions verbally is a crucial part of moral preparation. Initially, this may be difficult, but over time, the child will learn to better understand and convey their feelings. This will help avoid conflicts and misunderstandings in kindergarten/preschool.
Example: When your child is upset, calmly ask, “Are you sad because you don't want to leave mommy?” This will help the child recognise their feelings.
Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognise and manage one's emotions. Help your child identify their emotions and understand how to handle them. For example, when your child is angry or sad, help them describe these feelings and find ways to express them.
Example: Use “emotion cards” where the child shows a card with a face that reflects their current state (happy, sad, angry), and you discuss why they feel that way.
Gradually getting used to short separations from parents will help the child adapt to being in kindergarten/preschool. Start leaving your child for short periods with relatives or friends, gradually increasing the duration. This will help the child get used to new conditions without significant stress.
Example: Leave your child with their grandmother for an hour, and then gradually increase the time to a few hours so they get used to your absence.
Social skills are fundamental for a successful adaptation to kindergarten/preschool. Teach your child to play with other children, share toys, resolve conflicts, and interact with peers. This can be done in the sandbox or at home during group games.
Example: Organise playdates with other children, so your child can learn to play together, resolve conflicts, and share toys.
Spend more time in the company of other children. Invite peers over, visit playgrounds, and other places where your child can learn to interact with others. This will help them feel more comfortable in a larger group.
Example: Arrange playdates in the yard or on the playground where your child can meet new friends.
Role-playing games help children model social situations and learn different behaviours. Play with your child in scenarios like “mom and baby,” “doctor,” “store clerk,” or “teacher” to help them understand social roles and their place in society.
Example: Play “store” where the child acts as the cashier, and you are the customer. This teaches them communication and negotiation skills.
When your child starts attending kindergarten, it is essential to continue supporting their adaptation and development.
Parental support is extremely important. Parents should share their impressions and information with teachers to ensure consistent parenting models at home and in kindergarten/preschool. This will promote consistency in the child's learning and development.
Example: Communicate with teachers to learn about your child's progress and challenges, as well as the methods used in the kindergarten/preschool.
At ESTI Preschool, there is an opportunity to arrange an individual meeting with the teacher to discuss your child's development and behaviour.
Spend more time with your child in joint games and activities. This will help strengthen the emotional bond and provide the child with a sense of security and support. Joint activities also promote the development of various skills necessary for successful adaptation.
Example: Read books together, draw, play board games — these activities not only develop your child but also strengthen your relationship.
Good relationships with teachers help the child adapt more easily to kindergarten/preschool. Communicate with teachers, learn about your child's progress, and participate in joint events. This will create a supportive atmosphere for your child.
Example: Attend parent-teacher meetings, learn about the kindergarten's educational and upbringing program, and participate in events organised by the kindergarten/preschool.
Moral and physiological preparation for kindergarten/preschool is a crucial stage in a child's life that requires attention and support from parents. Proper preparation will help the child adapt more quickly to the new environment, maintain emotional stability, and develop necessary social skills. Parental support, joint games and activities, and establishing good relationships with teachers — all these contribute to the successful adaptation of the child to kindergarten.
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