Studies show that the early childhood years (3-5) are the most critical years for learning. This is time they develop their ability to be attentive, to socialize, and to follow directions. The Pre-Kindergarten programs today provide structured learning environment to prepare kids not only for Kindergarten but also serve as a foundation for their learning abilities for later success in life. While learning pre-reading, pre-math and socialization skills are important, it is essential that you, as parents, prepare your kids emotionally and socially during the preschool years.

A child with a high self-esteem encourages him to learn new things, to cooperate, to listen, to explore, to face the challenges ahead of him, to accept failures, and to express his thoughts and feelings. Even in your unstructured ways, you can help your child prepare for school emotionally, while developing his social skills as well.

Interact with the other kids
Bring your kids to the park, mall play grounds, and library storytelling sessions. Arrange play dates with your neighbors or join Moms’ groups in your area.

Play with your child
A child seeks attention. Spare some time to play with your child everyday. Play hide ‘n seek, chase, hopscotch, dress-up, catch and there’s a lot more than you can imagine.

Enhance creativity at home
Cook some home-made play dough and finger paints. Let those little fingers explore colors, textures and shapes while playing. Draw just about anything you can think of in your side walks with chalks. Have fun in the water. Do arts and crafts and display his art work at home.

Enhance your child’s language development
Talk to your child all the time. Talk to her while you’re driving or cooking. Play name games, spot the letters or sing nursery rhymes while in the car. Ask her what she sees in the clouds. Read to your kids every single day.

Expose your child to the world
Visit the zoos (getting an annual pass is really worth it!), watch live shows, go to the children’s museums.

Instill values
Remind your child constantly of the importance of sharing, taking turns, accepting mistakes and saying sorry, honesty, and praying.

Sing with your child
Rhymes enhance language development and stimulate the memory as well.

And lastly, two very important things to remember:
Listen to what your child says.
Learning while playing is very important