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8 Tips to Prepare Your Child for Preschool: Insights from UNICEF

DID YOU KNOW?

8/5/20252 min read

a bag of scissors and a package of scissors on a table
a bag of scissors and a package of scissors on a table

Preparing your little one for preschool is a huge milestone for both of you. It's totally normal for kids to feel a little nervous about being in a new place, and for parents to feel a little anxious about that first long separation.

But don't worry, you can help make the transition smooth and fun! These 8 tips from UNICEF will help you get your child ready for their new adventure.

8 Tips to Get Your Child Ready for Preschool

  1. Visit the school together. If you can, go with your child to the school before the first day. Explore the classrooms and the playground. This way, the school will feel familiar and less intimidating.

  2. Arrange a playdate. See if you can get your child together with some of their new classmates beforehand. It's always easier to start school when you already have a friend.

  3. Play "school" at home. Use pretend play to get your child used to the idea of preschool. You can take turns being the teacher, reading stories, and singing songs. This helps them see school as a fun place.

  4. Practice getting ready. Make a game out of things like zipping up a jacket, buttoning a shirt, or putting on a backpack. The more they practice, the more confident they'll feel doing it on their own.

  5. Share your own school stories. Talk about your first day of school. Tell them how you felt and all the fun memories you made. You can even show them old photos of yourself in preschool to make it more real.

  6. Create a new routine. Start practicing your new school-day routine a few weeks in advance. Get them used to a new bedtime and wake-up time so they're not tired and cranky on the first day.

  7. Talk about their feelings. Ask your child how they feel about starting school. Let them know it's okay to be excited and a little scared at the same time. Reassure them that you'll be there to pick them up at the end of the day.

  8. Have a quick goodbye. Saying goodbye can be tough for everyone. On the first day, make your parting quick and positive. Give them a big hug and a quick "I'll see you soon!" so they know you'll be back.