Before sending your children off to school for the first time, it’s always a good idea to prepare them for what their schedule may consist of.
Their school days are going to be filled with new experiences for them, including socializing with other children their age, learning academic subjects, and enhancing their listening skills.
The best way to prepare them for the transition starts by preparing them at home.
Here are just a few ways parents can create a learning-friendly environment for school readiness in their own homes.
Incorporate Learning Into Everyday Routines
This can be anything from having your children count out and memorize ingredients while in the kitchen, counting how many steps it takes them to get to their rooms to another area of the house, or practicing the alphabet during bathtime.
These everyday activities can be transformed into useful lessons that are not only engaging, but will prep your children’s brains for in school learning activities.
Create A Reading Routine
Whether it’s during lunch or at bedtime, parents should aim to read a book with their children at least once a day, even before they start school. These books should reflect your child’s interests to keep them engaged and eager to learn more about reading. Get their minds working and prepared for school by asking them questions about the book’s themes and discussing the illustrations.
Promote Interactive Play
Early school days include activities involving interactive play, such as building with blocks, doing arts and crafts, and using your imagination to play house. While at home, parents should encourage their children to focus more on interactive play rather than screen time since they won’t have much of it once they’re in school.
Set A Consistent Learning Time Schedule
Once children are in school, they will need to adjust to a consistent schedule that allows time for learning, play, lunchtime, and other activities. The best way to help them adjust is by making a structured learning activity schedule at home so they become familiar with routine. Set aside certain times each day to practice spelling, reading skills, and other educational activities they may participate in at school.
At Harbor Child Care, we know that the school adjustment is a journey for both children and parents. Contact us today at (516) 493-9830 for more information.
