Summer ‘24/Fall ‘24
For the last thirty years, TBE has started a new year of learning within our prestigious preschool. Over four thousand children have entered our doors ready to learn and have fun. A new school year means new beginnings, new adventures, new friendships, and new challenges.
Although starting preschool is an important milestone for the children, it often comes with some crying, uncertainty, and not wanting to say good-bye to their parents. A child’s main source of anxiety around entering preschool is that they have absolutely no idea what to expect. They will experience new rules and routines maybe unlike the ones you have at home. Routines in preschool classrooms include things such as arrival time, bathroom time, mealtime, playtime, naptime, clean-up time, and departure time. These routines help to build a consistent classroom community.
The solution to many of these problems is to be prepared. Preparing your child for preschool can greatly reduce their separation anxiety. Familiarize your child with their new beginning. Explain the routines of preschool. Meet the teachers and get to know each other. Make sure you have a chance to chat with the teachers when your child is around. Showing your child that the teachers are someone you like and trust will make your child feel the same. Visit the school with your child. Show them around a classroom and point out the different activities they can do each day. Tell them they will meet new friends, play new games, and go to the playground just like the parks you visit together. Also, most importantly, explain how you will pick them up at the end of the day. Children need to learn that you will always come back for them just like they will eventually learn their ABC’s and 123’s. Returning for your child is a learning experience too.
Believe in your children and know that you have given them a great gift. Be the example for your children of what you want them to become. You are the mirror that he or she will use until they have grown. Of all the things you have done in your life, know that raising your child was your greatest accomplishment with many new beginnings.