Deciding if or when to enroll your child in preschool can be a big decision. Here are some questions to ask yourself to determine if your child is ready for the next step.

Has your child ever spent time away from you?

Sending a child to preschool when he or she has never spent time away from Mom or Dad can be traumatic for a three or four year old and may have a difficult time adjusting. On the other hand, kids who have spent time with a babysitter, grandparent, or at playdates at another parent’s home will better understand that they’ll only be separated from you for a few hours, and that they’ll see you at the end of the day. This isn’t a reason to not send your child to preschool, just be prepared in case there is some initial separation anxiety for your little one – and don’t be surprised if you feel the same!

Can your child be independent when required?

We’re not talking about if your three-year-old can pay their own bills, obviously. However, most preschools want children to be potty-trained, and should be able to do simple tasks like wash their hands or put away toys. In preschool, your child will also spend time working on individual tasks such as arts and crafts. If your child needs you to sit with them for an hour while they color at home, this could be something to work on before they leave for preschool. To practice, set your child up with a puzzle or some coloring supplies while you do the laundry, for example.

Does your child handle a schedule well?

While day-to-day activities can vary, most often preschoolers will follow a daily schedule. This helps with the transition into school as children seem to feel comfortable when their days are predictable. You can encourage this by having set meal times, naptime, and bedtime rituals.

Does your child have the mental and physical energy for preschool?

Preschool is a busy time. From field trips, to art and counting, to playing, there is always something to do. Children who rely on two or more naps per day may not be able to handle full days at preschool without getting cranky. You can encourage more daily energy by ensuring that your child gets to bed early.

What are the benefits of preschool?

Preschool, while not a necessity, has shown to have lasting benefits for children that follow them throughout their school years. Studies have shown that children who attend preschool show more overall academic success, less repetition of grades, and higher high-school graduation rates. These benefits are especially prevalent in low to middle-income families.

Children who attend preschool also have more exposure to literacy and math skills, which makes them better prepared for learning these subjects in kindergarten. Possibly more importantly, preschool offers children a place to gain important social skills and develop emotionally. These skills will help kids to interact with each other and with adults, learn basic manners, and get a head start on conflict resolution skills. Preschool is also a place for students to learn vital skills such as how to pay attention and how to control their tempers. Since preschools are more structured than a typical daycare, there is more of a necessity for children to learn how to focus, follow instructions, and control their actions so they can participate, all while doing fun, hands-on learning activities with the class.

Preschool doesn’t only benefit children, but parents as well. Preschool offers structured and predictable time where parents can work and is more reliable than a nanny or single-teacher daycare as preschools have multiple professionals who can handle the day if another teacher is out sick. Additionally, preschool is a great place to meet other parents in the community who can help support each other, and even set up playdates, babysitting time, and carpool help.

The Bottom Line: There’s No Wrong Or Right Time

Most preschools accept kids from ages 3-5, and children should start kindergarten when they are five or six-years-old. While the above can help determine when to start thinking about preschool, in most cases your child is ready for preschool when he or she is eager to learn, excited to meet new friends, and isn’t being challenged at their regular child care center or at home. If you are looking for preschools in Chicago, consider Just For Kids. Our preschool offers childcare in Chicago for busy parents and eager children, and gives kids the opportunity for hands-on learning. Contact us to learn more about our preschool program or after school programs in Chicago!