Did you know that many preschools begin accepting students when they are two and a half years old? It may seem like just yesterday that your little one said his first words and took his first steps. Could it really be time for preschool already? Maybe, but then again, maybe not. Deciding when a child is ready for preschool is not a simple task. There are some questions that you can ask yourself to assess whether now is a good time to send your child to preschool.
For example, ask yourself whether your child is fairly independent, meaning that she can do things like wash her hands, eat lunch, go to the bathroom (most places require children to be potty trained) and sleep with little to no assistance. Also think about how accustomed your child is to spending time away from you. The transition to preschool will be easier if your child attends day care or even if he spends a few hours a couple of days a week with an aunt, uncle, grandparent, or other caregiver. Independent play is another indicator of readiness, as is the willingness to participate in group activities like library story time or kicking a ball around with friends. Also, think of how much (or little) rest your little one needs, and when he naps during the day. At preschool, nap or quiet time is usually after lunch.
Also, ask yourself how you feel about sending your child to preschool. You may be eager for him to begin or you may be wondering whether you might prefer to do homeschool or unschool with him. As I write this, my older child is three and a half years old and my youngest is fourteen months old. When Dylan was two and a half, we decided that since I am at home with Blake anyways, we would keep Dylan at home during his preschool years. Of course, we will do the same with Blake. In reality, our at home preschool looks more like unschooling because there is no set curriculum. Both boys are thriving, learning and growing and we seem to have settled into a weekly routine that includes plenty of time at home as well as plenty of time with other adults and children in various settings.
Your little one may seem to be growing up so quickly. Take some time during your child’s toddler years to think about what path you might want his education to take so that you can be ready when the time comes.