I’m worried about my 2.5 yr old starting preschool

[Anonymous]

He’ll be just shy of 3 in September.

Had covid not happened, he would have continued with music class, story times, play dates, playgroups, and play dates. But for the last 16 months it been just DH, nanny, new baby, and me. We’re working on getting a couple play dates over the summer and going to the playground when it isn’t too crowded (I’m still worried about covid because we live in a high tourist area).

He’s a generally shy kid to begin with.

His preschool is 9 to 2 and it’s unlikely any of the kids are coming from group care situations so they may all be in the same boat. Still I worry because he’s never been away from us, doesn’t like loud or sudden noises, and simply hasn’t been around other little kids.

Anyone else worried?

[Anonymous]

Yes, I’m worried too. DD is so reserved and sensitive. Like you we’re going to do play dates this summer but can’t do much else.

[Anonymous]

I think a lot of us are a bit worried.

Our nanny, a former preschool teacher, has enacted “preschool rules” at our house recently. Not pulling a toy out of someone’s hand, saying “”I’m playing with this now”, taking turns, eating with DD at her little table and not sharing food, waiting. I don’t know if it’s going to help or not but it’s something to do!

[Anonymous]

Preschool teacher here. Every parent is worried about this, you are not alone. Kids adjust pretty quickly, and every year there are 1-2 who take longer to adjust. I’m a mom too, and one of my kids also had some sensitivities to noise and they adjusted too. Expect some tears at drop off. Try not to let your fears and worries show! Do try and arrange those play dates—if the preschool has orientation days, make sure to attend those.

Get him ready by having regular sleep and meal times. Have him wash his own hands after every bathroom trip and before meals. Have him start wiping his own bum (you can follow to clean up), and have him pull his own pants up and down to use the bathroom. Have him practice opening his lunch box items best he can. Don’t put him in shoes with laces. The rest will follow.

[jsmith123]

OP I think it's very normal to feel nervous about your child being in a new environment.

Does the preschool have visit days prior to the school year starting? Ours did, and I think it helped my son become familiar with the evironment.

Also, do you know anyone else going to the school? It might be nice to have some play dates with the other kids over the summer so he'll recognize a few of them.

[Anonymous]

Why did you choose a 9-2 program instead of 9-12? Curious given it appears you don't need it for daycare reasons.

[Anonymous]

It will be an adjustment but it will be okay. Just give it a couple weeks and he's going to be asking to go to school, you'll see.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Why did you choose a 9-2 program instead of 9-12? Curious given it appears you don't need it for daycare reasons.

OP here. All three of the preschools we liked and applied to were 9 to 2. Just worked out that way.

[Anonymous]

If this is causing angst, don't do it. I'm not saying your angst is necessary or even logical, but pre school is not necessary. Do what will make your/your family's life comfortable.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:If this is causing angst, don't do it. I'm not saying your angst is necessary or even logical, but pre school is not necessary. Do what will make your/your family's life comfortable.

OP here. It’s causing me worry but not DS. It’s not an option not to go. After the last year, he needs the socialization badly.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Why did you choose a 9-2 program instead of 9-12? Curious given it appears you don't need it for daycare reasons.

OP here. All three of the preschools we liked and applied to were 9 to 2. Just worked out that way.

Interesting. First I’ve seen these hours for preschool. Sounds like great hours for parents, but I would think anything past 12 would be more challenging due to wanting to nap or just being tired and cranky. Overall I’m sure it will be a positive experience

[Anonymous]

You have 3 months to work on this. 3 months is a lifetime to a 2-3 year old. Set up at least weekly playdates, go to the playground daily, get the socialization going.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Why did you choose a 9-2 program instead of 9-12? Curious given it appears you don't need it for daycare reasons.

OP here. All three of the preschools we liked and applied to were 9 to 2. Just worked out that way.

Interesting. First I’ve seen these hours for preschool. Sounds like great hours for parents, but I would think anything past 12 would be more challenging due to wanting to nap or just being tired and cranky. Overall I’m sure it will be a positive experience

We’re in Los Angeles and those were the hours of all three. I would have preferred 9 to 12 too.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Why did you choose a 9-2 program instead of 9-12? Curious given it appears you don't need it for daycare reasons.

OP here. All three of the preschools we liked and applied to were 9 to 2. Just worked out that way.

Interesting. First I’ve seen these hours for preschool. Sounds like great hours for parents, but I would think anything past 12 would be more challenging due to wanting to nap or just being tired and cranky. Overall I’m sure it will be a positive experience

We’re in Los Angeles and those were the hours of all three. I would have preferred 9 to 12 too.

And DS stopped stopped napping.

[Anonymous]

We’re in the same situation down to the birthday. Due with #2 in the fall. I’m nervous, but he was supposed to start 2s last year and I’m optimistic that he’s going to love school. I would’ve sent him to camp this summer but my husband isn’t ready with covid and wanted to delay as long as possible. School is good for kids and it will be great for them to get the socialization. I feel like my son could really use the stimulation, group ply, and some more structure.