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Ready or Not...

Here Comes Preschool!

By Shel Franco

Following your child's lead is also the trend in toilet training. In fact, most experts agree that forcing a child onto the toilet by a certain age is not only unnecessary, it can actually stall a child's development. As a result, many 3-year-olds are very happy to be wearing diapers. Unfortunately, many preschools require a child to be 100 percent out of diapers before the first day of class.

Physically, the child must be ready to care for his own toileting needs. Teachers will help out with the occasional stubborn button or zipper, but all in all, the child should be as self-sufficient as possible. "A child needs to be able to take care of his basic needs," says Estes. "[This includes] potty training, manipulating most clothing and washing hands."

While a child's first introduction to socialization may come at home with siblings, successful interaction with peers is critical to preschool adjustment. "A child who is ready for preschool will usually be interested in other children," says Estes. "He may not be ready for group play, but partner play is usually appropriate." A feeling of belonging to the group is an essential ingredient in a child's preschool experience.

This rang true for Jeannie Kouch of Wisconsin, and her daughter, Anna. "She is the oldest of three children. She was great with the newborn, and even better with her 2-year-old brother," Kouch says. "I was shocked when the teacher said Anna wasn't getting involved with the other children. When she took a more active role, she really started to like preschool."

Want to see more?

• Preschool Prep Series: The Waldorf Method
• Preschool Prep Series: How to Hit the Ground Running
• Cooperative Preschools: A Parent-Participation Learning Experience
• Selecting A Preschool: Why? When? Where?
• Is your child ready for preschool? Tell us about it at the Preparing for Preschool Discussion Board.
• What are some of the things you should be looking for when choosing a preschool or daycare for your child? Use our printable checklist to jot down notes when calling and touring preschool and daycare centers.
• Preschool Prep Series: The Montessori Method