Preparing a Shy Child for Preschool

Introducing Preschool

• Visiting the preschool with your child during story time or play time allows him to observe the setting, caregivers and other children. Avoid pushing your child to participate or putting him on the spot by expecting him to answer questions posed by the teachers. The object of the visit is to familiarize your child with preschool. Discuss the experience with your child afterward, mentioning toys and activities that appeal to your child. Keep the conversation positive and upbeat.

Making Friends

• Setting up a play date with another child who will be attending the same preschool program helps your child build connections. This gives your child an opportunity to develop a friendship and will alleviate fears of being left alone at preschool. If your child knows someone from school she is less likely to feel lonely or abandoned when you drop her off at the door.

Social Interaction

• You've spent years nurturing your little one in the safety of your home. In the process you may have overlooked the value of exposing your child to a variety of social situations where he can learn about interacting with others. A quick trip to the park or other play center, visiting the library at story time and visiting children's museums are all great ways for your child to gain exposure to social interaction in a non-threatening environment. Don't overlook the value of making friends with other parents of children your child's age. When you socialize as a family, your child gets double benefits. He has someone his age to interact with and he observes you interacting with others, which teaches him about social interaction.

Fear of Separation

• If your little one has depended on you for support and help throughout the day, she may be worried that when she goes to preschool there won't be anyone to help her. She may also be worried that you will forget to come get her, or that she will miss her ride home. Let her know whom to ask for help when she needs it. Explain who will take her to preschool and how she will get home. Knowing that you are there waiting for her will alleviate unnecessary concerns about getting stranded or being forgotten.

Keep Shyness in Perspective

• How you and other family members react to your child's shyness has a big impact on his self-esteem and confidence. Labeling him as shy and pushing him to participate, or ridiculing him when he doesn't, sends the message that something something is wrong with him. This can create a vicious cycle, causing him to further withdraw from social interaction. To help your shy child transition to preschool, address his fears without making him feel stupid or wrong for feeling them.