If your child starts preschool this fall, now is the time to start preparing them for their big first day! There are a number of fun activities parents can engage in with their children to make the transition easier.

Gary Mangiofico, CEO of Los Angeles Universal Preschool, a nonprofit organization that promotes access to high quality preschools in Los Angeles County, shares ideas to help make your child’s preschool experience enjoyable and rewarding for both parent and child!

• Before the first day of preschool, talk to your child about their new transition. Remind them that once you leave the classroom, there will be a supportive, loving teacher to care for them.

• Stay with your child a little longer before leaving to ease their anxiety. Assure your child that you will return in the afternoon to pick them up.

• Tour the preschool with your child before the first day of school. Visit important locations like the classroom, bathroom, playground, drop-off/pick-up area, etc. Make sure your child joins you on this visit so they can meet and spend time with their future teacher.

• Create a profile/snapshot of your child to share with their new teacher. This profile will provide a unique viewpoint of your child and can include information like their birthday, likes/dislikes, food allergies, medications, important contacts, etc.

• Read books with your child about starting preschool such as “What to Expect at Preschool” by Heidi Murkoff or “The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn.  Discuss how your child is feeling about his/her new classroom, and ask them what they’re most looking forward to about preschool.

• Attend preschool-sponsored orientation events to introduce yourself to your child’s new teacher(s). You will also learn what you can do to ensure a positive preschool experience for your child.

• Practice going through the first day of school morning routine, like waking up early, brushing your teeth, picking out what to wear, walking/driving to school, etc.

Mangiofico also suggests hiding notes like, “I love you” in your child’s lunch bag or backpack to discover throughout the day, which will help them feel secure. Finally, he recommends asking the teacher how to support your child’s education at home, including developing their social/emotional and academic skills.

Preschool is an important step for your child, an experience that will have a long-lasting impact on their lives. Not only will your child be better prepared for kindergarten and beyond, but they will also enjoy the social benefits, such as making new friends.

For more information on choosing a preschool or about LAUP programs, please visit www.laup.net.