Replies to 'Pre-school'

We are sending our 4 year old daughter to preschool as well, as a stay at home mom, I know exactly what you are feeling, but I really don't have too much anxiety about it (at least not at this point) She loves being around people and the main reason why we are sending her is becasue she wants to be like her friends and go to school. LOL I am driving her back and forth and she is only going three days a week for the 2 in half hour program. She will be attending a christian preschool that I am familiar with and you bet that I will be sticking around for a bit to get her settled and make sure she is fine(which with her personality, I have no need to worry). I think preparing them the best that we can is imporant but more imporant I think is to keep the communication lines open with them on a regular basis, talk to your son about his day, and his favorite activities and and whatever else you can think of. My daughter is smart and very alert and she will tell me everything that is going on. I don't think it is easy for any one sending their child off to school for the first time but I think as parents if we are alert and aware of our children's surrondings everything will be ok. Of course I pray alot and I am sure I will be doing plenty of it. :)

 It sounds like youre off to a pretty good start.As a former preschool teacher & now a mother myself, understanding your feelings( they are normal!) I have a few suggestions that may help.   

  

Visiting the school before he starts once or a couple of times with your child can be a big help.  that way he has already met his teacher and some of the other kids as well as have a look around. Doing this also allows you to observe the routine and allows for questions you may have. 

  

When your drop off your son always remember to "say goodbye" and that you will return (after lunch, after nap etc.) Sneeking out does not help children feel secure 

  

Remember it's always ok to call and ask how the day is going.  We usually called new parents during nap to let them know about the day so far.  Most teachers have notices "what we did today" or personal notes about each child's day & activities. 

  

Be involved!  Most classrooms welcome parent participation.  I was always glad when parents expressed interest in or became involved in our activities. 

If there's any way I can help please let me know 

Well I felt the same way you do until I found out that in the county where I live the parks department offers a class called "Early Discoveries" held in the parks activity centers. What it is, is a preschool readiness class, 2 hours 2 days a week, small class with two qualified teachers. Its supposed to help prepare the children for understanding what to expect from the school experience and teaches them a few things as well so they have a head start for the upcoming school year. My daughter knew the Pledge of Allegiance after only a month!! It also eased me into the idea of preschool as well. My daughter started at three years old so by this coming school year she will be four and somewhat prepared for school. Although, I will always drive her though. I am not confident about putting my daughters life in anyone else's hands. I grew up in NYC and never took a school bus to school and seems alittle weird to me that people put their children's lives in the hands of strangers to drive them anywhere let alone in a bus which has no seat belts... I just can not and will not get used to that Idea so I will be the chauffeur for the next 13 years! But getting to my point, your son will be fine and although it's a sad time for you, it really is harder on the parents than the kids, eventually you'll be okay too!  Good Luck!