Going to school for the first time is probably the most difficult adjustment process for your child. These days children start going to a preschool as early as 2.5 years. That depends entirely on the parents’ situation and inclination. If both parents are working and there is no extra help at home, it makes sense to send the child to a playschool, where there is often also a provision for a Daycare facility.
More than 50%of a child’s development happens between the ages of 1 and 4, so it’s beneficial for a child to go to school, which provides an array of activities and experiences for cognitive growth. There are bound to be several preschools near your home, so the question is how to pick the right one. Make an appointment with the School Head of each of these schools and pay a visit. Make sure to go on a weekday when children are around. You won’t be able to gauge much in an empty school. As you enter a school, you’ll get a sense of whether it’s a happy place for children. A well painted clean place is no guarantee of happy children but there is plenty of evidence that children respond well in bright, clean, well maintained environments. Take a good look at the toilets and play areas. Check for hygiene and safety issues that might stand out – for instance broken windows, jagged edges, unclean toilets or hanging electric wires.
Once the physical aspect is covered, check the quality of staff members. Are they qualified, trained and enthusiastic about their job? You child will be spending considerable time with these adults so you must be satisfied with their professional standards.
Check on the activities and schedule of events. These should be structured and clearly defined. Watch a class in session. Check the displays – a huge chunk of it should include samples of children’s work.
Once you have the information from all schools, weigh the pros and cons and make your decision. Talk to your child about this particular school. If your child has any friend going to that school, it’ll be a great help. In the beginning children feel anxious in the midst of strangers, so having a familiar face helps.
Prepare your child as best as you can for his or her school going experience but know that it will be stressful for your child and you as well. Keep emphasizing to your child the good time he will have there and reassure that you will be back to pick him up in a couple of hours. When the time comes finally, do not linger. Make sure you are emotionally ready to say good-bye and walk out. Children sense indecision on parents’ fear of leaving. It is not helpful to linger in the classroom when your child is experiencing separation issues. Instead, you should establish a routine to follow each day so that your child will develop a secure feeling. You could, for instance, give your child a kiss and verbally let him know that he will see you later. When separation issues exist, it is not beneficial to hold a child for a long period or pick them back up after already putting them down. It is only an additional separation step for them, so give a quick cuddle a word of assurance and leave.
Rest assured, your child will be fine!
