The Comfort of Familiarity at School
- A Trusty Sidekick: A beloved companion can provide a sense of security in a new environment. Let your child choose their favorite to bring along.
- A Special Something: As we know, kids can be pretty sentimental. As a parent, make sure they feel like they have that, even if it’s something untraditional. Whether that’s a specific toy, “blanky,” even an interesting homemade invention they’ve come up with. Whatever the case may be, giving them a comforting anchor for a new experience is always something to keep in mind!
Help Them Flap Their Social Butterfly Wings
- Cooperative Play Toys: Share! Toys that encourage sharing and turn-taking, such as building blocks or pretend play sets, can help your child develop essential social skills. We have something coming soon to help you with this! Sign up for our emails to learn more.
Building Independence
- Open-Ended Toys: "Look at what I can do" is a saying we hear all the time with our little ones. Give them toys like brushes, combs, or pretend food. Things like this can not only encourage self-confidence in your child by letting them make choices on their own, but also gives creative freedom to have endless fun!
- Problem-Solving Toys: Puzzles, shape sorters, and stacking toys can help develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Getting Ready For School Fun!
- Learning Toys: Help your kid(s) discover numbers, letters, and shapes with fun toys that make learning a blast!
- Touch and Feel Toys: Engage with squishy, colorful toys with your child. Not only does this help them with focus, it can also just prepare them for all the preschool adventures that await them!
Remember: The key is to choose toys that resonate with your child's interests and developmental stage. Observe their play and incorporate toys that support their natural curiosity and exploration.
Additional Tips:
- Read together: Stories can help children understand new experiences and emotions.
- Practice routines: Simulate preschool routines at home, such as saying goodbye, packing a bag, or following a schedule.
- Positive reinforcement: Praise your child's efforts and independence to boost their confidence.
- Open communication: Talk to your child about their feelings and expectations for preschool.
By combining the right toys with supportive parenting, you can help your child navigate the transition to preschool with confidence and excitement.
