Sometimes, we learn best from those who’ve gone before us. That’s definitely the case when it comes to parenting. Other parents can understand your challenges, share your joy, and offer their advice for the years ahead.
To contribute to that community, we’re sharing our best advice for parents of new preschoolers from staff and parents of The Gardner School family throughout the years. It truly takes a village to raise a child, and The Gardner School is committed to providing a community of support for little ones and their families.
Morning Drop-Off
“At first, you might miss your child so much when you drop them off at preschool. That’s a very normal response! The teachers at TGS are experts at reassuring both my child and me. When I pick her up at the end of the day, she always has a huge smile and so many stories to share.”
“Create a special drop-off routine with you and your child. It could include a special handshake, lots of hugs and kisses, and maybe even a song and a silly dance. End drop-off with a lot of reassurance and positive encouragement.”
“On some days, a smooth, efficient exit can help your child adapt quickly to their new setting. Within a few days, they’ll be so excited to see their teacher and their friends that they’ll be ready to leap out of the car seat.”
Schedule & Routine
“Take a look at your child’s calendar each week, so that you can remind them on the way to school of all the fun things they will be doing that day on the way to school. When you set the tone for preschool with positivity, you can create excitement about school and learning that can last for years.”
“A daily morning and evening routine always helps my child know what to expect each day. We have a special wake-up song, eat breakfast together, put on their uniform, and head to TGS! After school, we share stories about our day, eat dinner, have a quick bath, and read a few stories together. Preschool has become such an important part of our daily schedule!”
“We actually changed some of the things we do at home to match what our child does at TGS. This consistency around meals and nap times has helped him transition easily between home and school.”
Communication
“I would encourage new preschool parents to communicate with your child’s teachers. They love hearing from parents! You can give them a heads-up about your child’s needs and preferences, or anything that’s going on in their life. With more information, teachers can really personalize your child’s learning.”
“Be proactive! Check-in with your little one’s teachers every few weeks to see how they’re doing at school, what they’re loving, and what they’re learning about.”
“The parent communications app is amazing for getting daily snapshots of your child’s activities. Use these updates as a starting point for asking the teachers follow-up questions for more details and conversations with your child later at home”
Tricks of the Trade
“Let your child take a favorite toy from home. Having familiar things from home helps a child experience comfort in a new environment.”
“Take a photo at the start of each school year and again on the last day, so that you can really see just how much your little one has grown.”
“Keep a small container in your car with essentials, including extra toys in case you forget to restock the diaper bag or need an item on the go. We use face and hand wipes constantly.”
“Bring extra clothes. In preschool, the kids are exploring different materials, paints, dirt, and other great sensory materials.”
Beyond the Classroom
“Plan something fun and special on the first few weekends of starting preschool, so you get extra quality bonding time with your child. Make cookies, go to the zoo, or head to their favorite playground. This will give them a chance to tell you some of what they’ve been learning.”
“Take some of your little one’s school artwork to hang in your office for a sweet reminder of how much fun he or she is having all day at preschool. The handprint art is my favorite.”
“If possible, try to attend class parties and school events. It’s important to get to know all the kids in your child’s class, plus it makes your child feel special.”
“If you appreciate your teachers, let them know. When you go out of your way to give the teachers kudos for the work they do, it really means the world to them. Love your teachers, because they truly love your children.”
The Gardner School Supports Families
When you become a parent, you enter into a community that can help guide and support you as your child grows. The Gardner School’s programs are designed to encourage an emerging sense of self in preschoolers, all while nurturing intellectual growth, exploration, and socialization. Click here to schedule a tour at The Gardner School closest to you or request more information.
