Mom Questions Preschool for Child

Q My daughter will be 4 in March. She has been home with me since birth. I am just not sure if I want her to go to preschool. I am not comfortable with the trend for early academics. I do no academics with her of any kind. I buy no learning toys. She has such a wonderful imagination. I am just worried that I am not preparing her for Kindergarten, which is very academic around here. I guess my question is: Is it okay to let her just be a child for as long as possible before she must enter school? A I hope that your daughter can "just be a child" when she is in school as well as when she is with you. As a culture, we plan away and steal far too much of our kids' childhood, all in an effort to give them a leg up on their academic "competition" so they can get into a great college. Even "hurried" preschoolers are being over-programmed and placed in academically oriented preschools and "enrichment programs" because of their parents' fears that not doing so will leave them behind in the race for a place in a fine college.

You appear to be offering your daughter a stimulating, creative home environment where her imagination and self-directed play are encouraged. By doing this, you are affording her fine opportunities to learn and develop. Be aware that her social development is also a crucial part of her overall child development and provide her with chances to play and interact with other kids on a regular basis. Be careful not to prejudice your daughter's attitudes towards kindergarten because of your own dislike of its academic preparatory nature. I am sure that your healthy attitudes about learning will hold her in good stead during all of her schooling.


Previous:

Next:

  • Find Your Teacher's Back-to-School Supply List
    School Supplies for KidsOr check out these lists: Resources for preparing for back-to-schoolIf your childs teacher has not provided a list, check out these standard supply lists Kindergarten First Grade Second Grade   Third Grade Fourth Grade Fifth
  • Fun with Faces
    Fun with FacesTime 5 to 10 minutes Materials None Directions It is always fun for your baby to explore your face. Put your babys hand on one part of your face or head, such as your nose, mouth, chin, ear, etc. and say what it is. Extensions Take tu
  • Put Away the Silverware
    Put Away the SilverwareMaterials Silverware Utensil holderDirections Your child can help you put away the silverware as you remove it from the dishwasher or drainer. Place your utensil holder on the table with the clean utensils next to it. Your chil