Have you walked past the preschool classrooms and seen children happily settled in their playgroups, and learning with enthusiasm?
Your child can be too.
Let us share some insights from our preschool teachers to help your child settle in at childcare in Singapore.
What you need to know ahead of your child’s preschool journey
1. Develop predictable routines and practice good habits
At many childcare centres in Singapore, the preschool curriculum enforces routines as they help young children feel safe and allow them to develop life skills and healthy habits through practice.
Routines also foster security and emotional stability in your child and reduce power struggles by giving them a sense of control by knowing what to expect next.
When children are involved in a good routine, they not only feel confident and in control, they also learn to develop positive social skills and acquire a sense of satisfaction in being able to do things for themselves.
Effective use of routines allows young children to learn how their world is organised and what is expected of them.
For example, at childcare, your child will learn routines such as greeting the teachers, as well as exercising good hygiene habits like washing hands before they have snacks and scheduled sessions such as circle time, meals, naps and playtime.
Having a similar routine at home will help your child have a smoother transition into the childcare routine.
2. Preschool is more than just learning
We believe that every child develops at their own pace. At many childcare centres in Singapore, teachers believe in inculcating social skills such as sharing, taking turns, and negotiating – which are within the guidelines set by the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA).
As preschool teachers, we promote language development, critical thinking, and observational skills to enable future academic achievements for your child. You can assist by avoiding any comparison of your child’s progress to other children.
At home, offer your child opportunities to practice taking turns, sharing toys, learning to wait, and helping others.
Speak with your child’s teachers if you have any concerns and don’t be shy to ask for advice or ideas to use at home to support your child’s learning journey.
3. Your child is capable of so many things
As your child enters another milestone, remember that he/she is no longer a baby.
Fostering independence while providing support will help your toddler transit smoother into a bigger child role. Allowing your child to carry his own bag, choose his/her outfit for school and experiment with climbing or swinging on the playground are some things you can do to encourage confidence.
4. We are here because we love your children – trust us
As your child’s preschool teachers, we truly care about your child’s growth and well-being.
When we discipline your child, we do it with the intention of making sure your child is the best that he/she can be.
As child development experts, we are committed to promoting sharing, kindness and respect among the children and are equipped to handle a child who is not having a good day.
5. Learning can be messy - dress your child appropriately for childcare
Your child will be doing a fair amount of creative painting, messy play, or physical activities at the childcare. Put him/her in comfortable clothes or the school uniform that allow movement without restrictions during climbing, tumbling, running, or swinging from monkey bars.
Don’t dress your child in fancy clothes where stains and tears can ruin them. Make sure the clothing is easy for your child to put on or off by themselves – for example, pants with elastic bands or closed-toe Velcro sneakers.
6. Your child’s health is our priority
At this age, your child’s is still building his/her immune system and therefore more vulnerable to attacks by viruses and bacteria.
Childcare centres and preschools in Singapore are key places where common childhood diseases like hand foot mouth and the flu spread easily.
The health of our young charges is our priority. As such, preschool teachers will recommend you keep your child at home if he/she is not feeling well.
7. It’s ok to miss school now and then
It is ok if you need to keep your child at home for a day or two or take him/her on a special family outing during the school week.
We understand that family time is important, and he/she will not be missing any vital learning.
8. Disappointments, mistakes and setbacks are learning opportunities
During your child’s daily life at preschool, he/she will experience some setbacks that will lead to frustrations, drawbacks, and distress. These are opportunities for your child to build up resilience to problems and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
9. Short and quick drop-offs in the morning
Extended drop-offs can be painful for both parents and child, so do not prolong your drop-off.
Smile, tell your child you love him/her, and when you will be back for pick up, say goodbye and head for the door. We will take it from there and see that your child has the best day possible.
10. Share Your concerns with us
We welcome parents to talk to us and are happy to make an appointment for you to visit the school. Communication between parents and teachers is very helpful to us as we mutually share concerns or feedback on your child’s progress.
Book a tour with Us!
Now that you have heard from us, come visit us at your preferred Little Footprints Preschool centre and check out our programmes for your little one.
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