What About Mom and Dad?
Preparing Parents for PreschoolBy Gail Johnson
Celebrate the milestones. "It's important to celebrate the milestones instead of looking at them with sadness," Peckels advises. "Instead of saying 'My child is growing up and doesn't need me' mothers need to celebrate the fact that they are experiencing this step together with their child." Set your mind for success. How parents react to change really has an impact on their child. "If mothers are struggling with change this can really make it difficult for the child," says Peckels. "[Parents] have a role and they need to deal with the emotional part of this transition in their child's life. If they feel good about the situation it will be successful. If they don't, it will fail." Get involved. Most preschools welcome parent participation and many offer advisory councils and parent groups. It's important for parents to get to know their child's teacher. "Parents need to keep on top of what is happening and make sure they are comfortable with the curriculum," says Peckels. "They also need to listen to their child and make sure what they are hearing is the same as what they are seeing at the preschool. If a parent hears things they are uncomfortable with they have the right to ask questions." Make the most of your down time. Although the time during preschool goes fast, Peckels encourages parents to use the down time to take care of themselves. "Parents need to devote some time to their interests," she says. "Read a book or call a friend. I guarantee the time will just keep going faster, so it's important for parents to learn to take care of themselves today." Want to see more?
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