Preschool Preparation: Preparing Your Child for Kindergarten

Question:

My child will be starting formal education soon. What shall I do to prepare my child for a successful kindergarten year?

1. Prepare yourself as a way to prepare your child for kindergarten

Children learn easily by imitation. If you show anxiety or worry in the presence of your child, chances are your child may pick up these negative energies easily. Thus, take some time to cool down your mind and remain calm when you leave your child at the kindergarten for the first time.

2. Teach your child on basic self care

Is your child potty-trained? Able to button clothes on his/her own? Eat with proper utensils? Wash hand without assistance?

3. Teach your child on other basic skills

Let your child learn some basic knowledge before starting kindergarten as this will build their confidence when he/she learns in class. You can teach him/her on alphabet, counting, writing his/her name and colours.

4. Develop social skills in your child

Develop the idea in your child that you and your partner will not always be with him/her. Let your child play with other children, make friends or participate in group activities that do not require your presence.

Why are these so important?

Your child will experience these:

1. Higher level of confidence
2. Able to play and work on a task independently
3. Find joy in learning and exploring
4. Positive interaction with other children