Back-to-School Prep for Preschool : Tips for Kids Gaining an Educational Advantage

Tips for Kids Gaining an Educational Advantage from The Learning Experience, Chantilly / South Riding

The brain experiences the most rapid growth and absorption from birth to age 5, at which point as much as 90 percent of the intellectual and emotional brain wiring is set for life. Unfortunately, a recent study of educators funded by the Kellogg Foundation in partnership with the Early Childhood Investment Corporation found that roughly one in three children aren’t ready to learn when they start Kindergarten. According to the study, the primary reason teachers cite for this is that the children did not receive early childhood education and development services.

Similar to how the importance of early childhood education has not altered since the first formal classroom setting was established in France in 1779, neither has the need for preparation prior to the “big day.” The first day of school can be tough for any child, and it's no walk in the park for parents either – especially if it’s the child’s first first day. Separation anxiety, fear of the unknown and meeting new people can be very stressful, but the parents will get through it, and the children will be just fine, too.

You’re not alone.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2014 roughly 85 percent of the nation’s 5-year-olds, 66 percent of 4-year-olds and 43 percent of 3-year-olds attend preschool. And, while many children - and parents - have meltdowns on day one, the uptick in preschool enrollment nationwide since 1990 shows that children and parents are able adjust to the change and thrive in this developmental milestone.

“Entering a new class with different teachers and expectations can provide anxious moments for children and their parents. This is even more prevalent with children entering preschool, as many of these experiences are being introduced for the first time," said Judy McClimans, Center Director with The Learning Experience® in Chantilly, one of the nation’s fastest growing Academies of Early Education for children six weeks to six years old. "In many instances, it's a fairly new adventure being separated from mom and dad and all sides may need a little help in the adjustment phase. Our first-hand knowledge and insight into this transition enables us to provide easy recommendations to implement into your routine that result in great success."

Leading up to the “big day.”

Anything worth celebrating deserves a countdown to the “big day!” Preschool is no exception. Start with a pep talk to get your child excited about their preschool adventure. Continue this conversation daily, filling your little one(s) in on what they can expect including teachers, new friends, fun learning games, etc. A great book to read with your child to introduce the concept of going to school is “I Am Too Absolutely Small for School” by Lauren Child.

To bring the excitement to life, take your child to his/her new preschool before school starts for a sneak peak to look around and meet the teachers. Leading up to the first day of school, preferably for at least two weeks, make practice runs to the preschool to get your child accustomed to the new schedule and familiar with the school itself. During this timeframe, if you meet a fellow classmate of your child’s, suggest a play date before school starts to get an early start on friendship. Having a friend will make that first day a lot easier!

On the go or at home, The Learning Experience offers a digital connection to the preschool through BubblesU, an edutainment website offering multi-media and digital extensions of its proprietary curriculum. The interactive online environment complete with apps, videos, activities, music, eBooks, and much more, can serve as an introduction to the characters and mascot used alongside the curriculum and enrichment programs at The Learning Experience.

It’s finally here!

If possible, make plans to spend part of the first morning with your child. Tears are normal and common for both child and sometimes even you, the parent. For some children, the transition is made easier if it’s gradual. Each child is different, though, so talk with your child’s teacher(s) about any concerns regarding separation issues.

Don’t stay too long. Often the child will stop crying shortly after the parent leaves. Let the school be your guide on this – experienced schools have helped many children and parents through separation anxiety.

Leave your child with the following items in his/her backpack:

• A full change of clothes (maybe two sets)
• Any medical information the school may need including pediatrician’s phone number and any medical issues
• A plastic, waterproof folder for teachers to use when sending home notes and important information
• A favorite blanket to help your little one adjust to the transition
• Pack a picture of yourself with your child, especially if it’ll be their first time away

As with anything, practice makes perfect. Good luck on day two!

The Learning Experience® in Chantilly / South Riding is one of the nation’s fastest growing academies of early education for children ages six weeks to six years old. With a greater national emphasis on educational development during the most crucial years of a child's growth, The Learning Experience places a prominent focus on programs that advance scholastic preparation. The Learning Experience prepares children academically and socially via innovative scholastic and enrichment programs such as the L.E.A.P.® curriculum, a cutting-edge proprietary approach to learning which has more than 95 percent of its children graduating preschool reading at a Kindergarten level or higher. To complement the academic curriculum, The Learning Experience utilizes various enrichment programs crucial to advancing learning and overall balance, such as philanthropy, Yippee 4 Yoga™, Music 4 Me®, Movin’ N Groovin’®, manners and etiquette, and foreign language.

For more information, please visit http://chantilly.tlechildcare.com/ or www.thelearningexperience.com.