Moving from daycare to preschool marks a significant shift in a child’s daily routine, learning environment, and social interactions. Preschool introduces more structured educational activities and helps develop skills essential for future academic success. This period can be exciting and challenging as parents and children navigate the new routines that come with starting
Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK). Ensuring that your child feels comfortable and supported during this transition is crucial.
At Kids Christian Academy, we understand the challenges of transitioning a child from daycare to preschool. Since we offer daycare and VPK options, we know many ways to assist children in the transition and prepare them for full-time school. Here are some practical tips to help ease this change for children and their parents.
Leverage Daycare Experience
One of the significant advantages of enrolling your child in VPK at Kids Christian Academy is the continuity of the environment. Children who have attended our daycare are familiar with the surroundings, staff, and many of their peers. If your child hasn’t participated in daycare before, consider enrolling in a summer camp or aftercare program to gradually introduce the new environment.
Gradually Introduce New Routines
Preschool brings a more structured schedule compared to daycare, with the incorporation of specified learning activities. Begin by adjusting your child’s daily routine gradually a few weeks before the start of preschool. Introduce set times for waking up, meal times, and bedtime that align more closely with the upcoming VPK schedule. This is a great way to establish a consistent goodbye routine, setting up your child with a positive attitude and ease of mind for the new day in VPK.
Talk and Learn About the Upcoming Transition
Open communication is a healthy way to ease your child’s concerns about the transition. Talk to them about what to expect in preschool, emphasizing the fun and exciting activities they will be involved in. Reading children’s books is the perfect way to supplement these discussions about starting preschool, and they can help your child understand and relate to the stories.
Encourage Patience with Positivity
Preschool is a time when children begin to develop greater independence, but apprehension may still arise. Your attitude towards the transition can significantly influence your child’s perspective. Stay positive and patient, even if the first few days are challenging. Children often take cues from their parents, so a calm and confident demeanor will help them feel more secure about the change. Helping children build their responsibilities at home is a great way to instill confidence while dispelling nervousness.
Foster Communication Across the Board
Stay in touch with your child’s preschool teachers to monitor their progress and address any concerns that may arise. Establishing rapport with teachers and staff ensures that you are always in the loop. Additionally, your child can arrange playdates with other children who will be in the same preschool class. Encourage friendship building before school starts to provide your child with familiar faces and a sense of companionship when they begin preschool.
Transitioning from daycare to preschool is a big step for both children and parents. At Kids Christian Academy, we strive to make this transition as smooth as possible by leveraging the familiarity and comfort of our daycare environment. By preparing your child with gradual changes, open communication, and positive reinforcement, you can help them embrace this new adventure with confidence and excitement. Our VPK program is designed to support your child’s growth and development, ensuring they are well-prepared for the academic challenges ahead. If you have any questions about our programs, including infant care, childcare, VPK, or after-school programs give us a call at (407) 720-5133.