Hesitating about Preschool?..... Don’t.

Written by: Tina Liaridis

Why send your child to preschool? Well, at this age it is mainly about socialization and all the important knowledge and skills that come with that. Your child can get that at home with their friends, so why? Well, when they are in a school setting, they begin to learn about how the world works, in a sense. They will come into contact with many different personalities. At preschool they will meet children who are shy, loud, independent, needy, etc. They will be playing with all types of children and beginning to learn how to approach each personality in a different way. This alone is a huge step in learning how to communicate with others and one that should be taken earlier rather than later. The fact that they are away from you, with other adults but still feel safe and nurtured offers them an opportunity for independence and confidence. Learning to follow simple directions and to accept responsibility willingly is another positive progression. Making crafts, painting masterpieces, adding that last block on their tower enables them to explore and use their creativity. The house centre, sand and water tables offer a chance to have discussions with others and take part in imaginative play, which is so important for their cognitive development. With centres set up for play dough, puzzles, Lego, crafts, cutting etc. they have many opportunities to develop their fine motor skills. Outdoor play and physical activities in the gym help develop not only their gross motor skills but encourage the children to risk take and see what they are capable of. Most of all, creating friendships and developing a sense of accomplishment gives them the joy and positive energy that they need to build self-esteem. So you see preschool is not just time away from mom and dad. It is a setting in which your child is purposefully given the opportunities needed to develop the whole child- physically, emotionally, socially and academically. I sent my child to University Heights Preschool. It had all the wonderful learning opportunities noted above. I am so delighted with how she has grown in the past two years of preschool!

If you’re still trying to decide, call 286-7770, that’s the number of my daughter’s preschool, and go for a visit. The smiling faces and positive energy that fills the classroom at University Heights Preschool will help make that decision for you!

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