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Education

The big step Preparing for preschool and pre-K By Darlene ZagataPublished: August, 2009

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It is common for parents to worry about how their child will react to preschool. For some children, separation anxiety can be a problem. Children who have been in day care at an early age or those who have had regular interaction with other children and adults usually have a much easier time making the transition. On the other hand, children who have stayed at home with a parent or regular sitter may find entering preschool and the separation from their home environment more frightening.     Most children of preschool age have developed a sense of curiosity about other children and the world around them. This innate curiosity draws them to want to interact with others, but this can also be a time of anxiety – especially when they’re separated from those they are close to as they prepare to enter a foreign environment.     Parents also feel pangs of painful separation from their child during such a period of transition. They tend to worry about their child’s physical well being, as well as his or her emotional reactions. A parent’s fears can be exaggerated as well as a child’s. In most cases, children adapt more quickly and more easily than adults. Although they may be apprehensive for the first few days in a new environment, before long they usually settle in quite easily.     I remember the fears I had when my daughter first started kindergarten. She was a very shy child and clung ferociously to my husband and me. We feared that she would have a terrible time adjusting to being separated from us, but she proved us wrong. In fact, her first day went surprisingly well. Never underestimate a child’s ability to adapt.     Parents often feel as though they have abandoned their child, and they may feel a twinge of guilt. There is no need to feel this way. Instead, parents should try to gradually acclimate their child to new surroundings and ready them for preschool by arranging brief periods of separation. Most day care and preschool facilities are aware and sensitive to issues of separation that may arise between parents and children when attending for the first time. Parents may be able to arrange periodic and brief visits at the preschool prior to enrollment, in order to familiarize the child with the environment, the other children and the adults as well. Doing so can help to alleviate the fear and anxiety associated with separation from parents.     Get an early start by encouraging interaction with other children. This can be done by making regular visits to a local park or playground, or by scheduling play dates with other mothers and children in the neighborhood. It’s a good idea to join a playgroup or recreation center. This can be a great outlet for both children and parents.     Even if your child does experience a small amount of separation anxiety when attending preschool, remember that it is normal and chances are it will be short-lived. In the event that your child seems to have a severe case of separation anxiety, consult your pediatrician. He or she will be able to offer professional guidance, and perhaps a thorough consultation can help work through the child’s fears. Preschool should be a pleasant experience, not a frightening one. Darlene Zagata is a freelance writer. GET READY •> Quick tips that will help Miss Jodie's Learning Garden offers these tips for a smooth transition into the world of preschool for both of you: > Assume things will go well. Your child knows when you’re nervous. Be confident. Your child will follow your lead. > Go with a friend. There’s a good chance your child’s playmate may also be starting preschool. Go together for moral support. > Don’t surprise your child. Talk about how much fun your child will have! Be excited. Visit the center or look online together, so your child knows what to expect.

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