AS a first time parent it's natural to be bundle of nerves as the interview day for preschool admissions approaches. Heck, it's probably as nerve-racking even if you are doing this for the third time around. So whether you are a newbie or well-versed with the drill, these pointers might help you and your little one prepare for the big day.
| Parenting tips: Prepare your toddler for school |
FOR YOUR CHILD
Teach your child
- To recite a few nursery rhymes
Here are some common ones:
- Jack and Jill
- Mary had a little lamb
- Three blind mice
- Baa baa black sheep
- Humpty Dumpty
- To identify letters of the alphabet
- To identify numberals
| Many parents think of reading and writing as "the basics". But these are extremely complex tasks that require the senses, muscles, nerves and brain to all work together. To learn effectively, children must first develop sensory, fine motor and large motor skills. If this does not occur, learning problems may result. |
Keep him pressure-free
You don't need to coach or train your child for the interview. In fact, this can also be highly damaging as he will be exposed to this at the cost of other essential developmental experiences.
While you spend your time 'training your child' for the entrance test, he is being deprived of a wide variety of movement experiences, especially through natural play opportunities.
Make him play with other kids
Your child may be taken for a 'play date' while you and your spouse are interviewed by the principal / co-ordinator. During this time, his interaction with other children will be observed.
Letting your child interact with other kids before the interview will give him the chance to express himself better with children his own age, learn to share his toys and even learn good manners.
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Let him get enough rest
A good night's rest before the interview will ensure that your child is not in a cranky or irritable mood.
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