This blog is aimed at any parent who is looking for advice about child care and early learning. I do not work in this industry. My name is Keira, and I am just another loving parent who wants the best for her child. When my child was 2 years old, I decided to return to work. This was the beginning of my search for child care. Over the next couple of months, I learnt lots of useful things from other mothers and those who work in the industry. I hope this blog helps you to make the right choice when it comes to child care.
Early Learning and Child Care
Tips On Preparing Your Child For Kindergarten
Lesa Miller
The pride of every parent is seeing their child grow. If it's time for your child to go to kindergarten, like any other parent, you are excited. The following tips will ensure your child fits in with the rest of the children and adapts quickly to a school routine.
Talk to Your Child
Kindergarten can be a scary experience for your child. This is the first time they are away from home and the first time they will be engaging with teachers. Also, it is the first time they will be mingling with many children.
To prepare them emotionally, you need to talk to them about kindergarten. Tell them what kindergarten is and what to expect. Ask them questions so they can express their feelings. Reading a book about the first day of school will help give them context about what kindergarten is all about.
Master Basic Skills
Children who have mastered some basic skills will feel more confident in class. In kindergarten, children are introduced to new skills. This is also where they develop learning habits that will affect their entire lives.
If your child can count to ten, hold a pencil, say their name, and dress up for school, they have a head start that will help them fit in school comfortably. Help your child practice these skills in a low-stress and fun way. For example, you can teach them to colour while you sing them their favourite lullaby.
Establish Strong Routines
Routines are a good way to teach children and make them feel in control and safe. They also promote self-confidence. Some family routines that will prepare your child for kindergarten include bedtime routines, reading routines, and family mealtime routines.
A part of developing a bedtime routine includes establishing a consistent bedtime and an order of activities before the child goes to bed. For example, the child takes a bath, puts on their pyjamas, brushes their teeth, reads them their favourite story, and then you kiss them goodnight.
For reading routines, you should read with your child at least a few minutes a day to build their literacy and language skills. To make this interesting for the child, let them pick out the book they want you to read them.
Lastly, a family mealtime routine educates your child about healthy eating habits. You also have the opportunity to spend time talking with your child, which strengthens their language skills. You can also establish routines like washing hands before dinner, or setting the table, or clearing dishes after meals. These are skills that will be useful when they start going to school.
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