Is Your Child Ready for Preschool?
How can you predict whether it's time to load up your little one's backpack and pack him off to preschool? Skip the Magic 8 Balls and Ouija boards, and look no further than your child to clue you in. What your potential preschooler will be expected to know and be able to do before he's signed up will depend on the school you're considering as well as his age (preschool can start as early as age 2, or as late as age 4). But there are some general indications of readiness that can help you decide if preschool should be in your child's near future.
Grab a sheet of paper and a pen and take our yes-or-no quiz to find out if your tot has what it takes to make the grade — and pick up tips for upping his chances of preschool success.
- Does your child know how to understand and follow simple directions?
∗Yes ∗No - Is your child able to cooperate and take turns?
∗Yes ∗No - Is your child potty-trained?
∗Yes ∗No - Does your child know how to understand and follow simple directions?
∗Yes ∗No - Is your child comfortable around other adults and kids?
∗Yes ∗No - Does your child know how to make decisions?
∗Yes ∗No - Is your child used to a structured schedule?
∗Yes ∗No - Does your child have basic self-care skills, such as using zippers and buttons, washing hands and eating lunch or a snack without help from you?
∗Yes ∗No
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Let your baby get some exercise and play while you work in any room in the house. Set up a doorway jumper on any available door frame and let your baby bounce to his heart’s content, leaving your hands free for daily chores and housework. The j
