I know that I often write about parenting and life with teenagers, but I do have some recollection of the preschool years as well. And what I don’t remember, I also have friends who still have wee ones to bring back all those glorious (and challenging) days with preschoolers under foot. Looking back and trying to get the whole thing in perspective, I think there are ways to make the most of those preschool years…
I know when you are in the midst of the chaos and defiance and temper tantrums, it seems like it will never end. It is sort of like having all your kids in diapers—you think that day will never come when they will be fully toilet trained and then one day you realize it has been a while since you changed your last diaper! All those whys and hows and whining of the preschooler will pass, and you’ll start to miss your snuggly little child!
Spending time with a preschooler can be really incredible. Everything is an opportunity for learning—coming up with games, songs and stories that incorporate those pre-reading basics like colors, shapes, and numbers can be fun and easy. Preschoolers can also be kept busy and learning by being included in adult and family activities—helping with cooking and housework, working in the yard, participating in grocery shopping, etc. I remember than when my kids were fighting or bored as preschoolers, getting them involved in something “real” was the fastest way to tame those savage beasts!
Preschoolers are ready for a bit of a social life, but it still needs to be on a smaller basis. One or two good, compatible friends is often enough and even if a preschooler has plenty of siblings to play with, it is nice to have a friend or two of their own too. I believe that kids younger than five are really to young for organized activities like regimented sports and classes (but that is just my opinion)—looser classes, play groups, swimming, etc. can be great fun though and give them a little structure without forcing too much on them too soon.
Those preschool years pass quickly, before you know it the child will be marching off to school or more structured studies and activities—there is so much we can do with them when they are young to help give them a great start, and enjoy their blossoming personalities to boot!
Also: Chasing Away Monster Fears