Every child reaches preschool readiness at a different age dependant on their personality and experiences. We have created a little guide based on our program and frequently asked questions to help you find the answer.
Is your child comfortable around other children?
Can your child be happily left with others?
Can your child understand instructional directions?
Does your child have the energy to make it through the morning?
Can your child concentrate on a task or craft for a longer period of time?
Can your child self-initiate play?
Is your child comfortable around other children?
A preschool may be an intimidating place for a child who hasn’t had the opportunity to socialize with peers before. The gross motor gymnasium time can often be a loud environment, and we want your little one to feel at ease during their time with us. Experiences such as parent and tot groups or playing with others at the playground can be a great way to introduce your child to interactions and play with other children.
Can your child be happily left with others?
Our little ones may be affected by separation anxiety and intimidated by a new environment, it is important for the cohesion of our classroom and students that children can adapt and function within a preschool environment. Many of our learners come to us as their first experience of being away from their families. We are an inclusive and a welcoming community, who at heart want the utmost of every child’s personal well-being and development.
Can your child understand instructional directions?
Our preschool day involves a lot of teacher direction. We move between a classroom area and a gymnasium, and it is beneficial for a child to understand the instructions of their teacher. We use simple cues such as come sit, stand up, put away or put on. Westdale Co-operative Preschool is a very diverse program, and sometimes there are language barriers with our students. If your primary language at home is not English, please let us know and our teachers will endeavour to learn a few useful phrases in your child’s language.
Does your child have the energy to make it through the morning?
If your child still naps in the morning, or will become very tired and irritable by lunchtime, our preschool may not be the best environment. Whilst we have opportunities for quiet time, we do not have a nap area. Our late morning gross motor activities are very stimulating and can be tiring.
Can your child concentrate on a task or craft for a longer period of time?
Our children often participate in teacher-directed craft activities or self-initiated play. Children develop the ability to maintain focus on a task for a prolonged period at their own developmental pace. If your child requires frequent one-on-one attention and guidance, then a preschool environment may not be best suited to their personal well-being and needs. We are an inclusive environment, and sometimes children come to us with additional needs. We promise to strive to make our preschool the best place for every child by working closely with the families and any external support that may be of benefit.
Can your child self-initiate play?
A large element of the preschool environment is self-initiated play. During free-play times, our teachers may guide the students through conversations and prompts, but it is important that your child feels comfortable playing without one-on-one attention and direction.