A healthy good-bye routine

It’s normal for toddlers to become anxious or afraid when their primary caregivers leave. The key: a healthy good-bye routine. "Always leave your child with a trusted and familiar caregiver, and have the same brief good-bye routine each time you go.

Review Your Child’s Social Skills.

Your little one doesn’t have to be the next Emily Post, but she should have a basic grasp of how to behave in public. From using the restroom on her own to knowing to say “please” and “thank you” there are some practical skills that your preschooler should have mastered by now, or at least possess a basic understanding.

Preschools let parents stay

Many preschools let (or even encourage that) parents stay in the classroom for all or part of the first few days, so if you can swing it, stick around. Knowing that you’re within clinging distance will give your kid the courage to explore his new digs.

Talk up preschool

Talk positively about preschool ahead of time: their new teacher, their new friends, their new classroom.

Send kids to work

Place child-sized furniture around the house to encourage the busy toddler to sit still longer and “work” at her own drawing table. A step stool will help her reach the kitchen sink for hand washing, tooth brushing, and for "helping" in the kitchen.

You are your child’s advocate

As a parent, you are your child’s advocate. For your child to succeed in the classroom, it is vital that you communicate his or her needs to the adults at school.

Kids and back-to-sickness

Children in large groups are breeding grounds for the organisms that cause illness. The top 5 causes for missed school are colds, stomach flu, ear infection, pink eye and sore throat.

Taking an active roll at school

Teachers can encourage parents to take an active role in the classroom by requesting volunteers for holiday parties, field trips, or book readings.

Linking physical education to academic

Remember that your child’s physical education is directly linked to his academic education. Research shows that brain development is directly linked to physical activity.

Advocating for your child

Always be child’s advocate, but never become the teacher’s adversary. If you feel child has been wronged, defend her. Call the teacher, have a conference to work things out

Staying involved with schooling

Take time to meet each teacher and be sure they have your contact information and you have theirs if there are any concerns regarding your child.

The ugly truth about greeting cards

Every year, there are 2.65 billion holiday cards sold in the US. Look for cards that contain recycled content or recycled materials

Keep the preschool teacher informed

Changes to your child’s family situation can impact on their emotional and academic well-being. If you keep your child’s teacher informed of any changed circumstances the child can be supported if necessary.

From: schools.nsw.edu.au Opens in new window

Benefits of preschool

Preschoolers are wonderfully resilient little people. They have so much energy and enthusiasm for life. Preschool offers them wonderful opportunities to explore and experiment.

Learning with your toddler

Bring your child to places where he or she can learn- The zoo, museums, parks and child classes.

Toddler Language Skills

Help your child’s language skills by speaking to her in complete sentences and in ‘adult’ language. Help her to use the correct words and phrases.

Daycare fees

While daycare center rates are important, check for hidden fees which will add up during the year. Being late to pick up your toddler will incur some hefty overage charges!

Learing to hold a pencil.

To help develop a writing grasp, have your child color with broken crayons (if your child is still putting inappropriate things in his mouth, adult supervision is required to prevent choking).

Art Supply Tip

Establish a place for art supplies early on, that is both easily accessible and neat.

Be involved with education

Being involved in child’s education is extremely important for all kids, especially for kids with speech, language or learning difficulties