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Pre-School

Amanda - posted on 09/14/2010 ( 3 moms have responded )

3

18

My son is 2 years 4 months old. I would like to send him to preschool for just a couple days a week, a few hours each day. Other mothers that I have talked to about this said the "appropriate" age to send a toddler to preschool is 3. A few places that I have talked to say the youngest they take toddlers is 2 years 9 months. He is very smart and intelligent. His attention span is amazing and he loves to play with other kids. I thought it might be good for him to go once he reaches the minimum age requirement so that he can gradually become familiar with it. Any feedback will be greatly appreciated. Thank you!!

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Lori - posted on 09/15/2010

152

17

I have a bachelor's in Early Childhood Education, though this doesn't make me an expert, it does provide insight. Personally from all the research and studies that have been done, any child less than three is too little to attend a pre school program. A lot of states do not even allow your child to enter until they are 3 years of age. Some children are not ready at three. Is your child potty trained? Can he wipe himself? This is something that some schools are starting to require before your child can enter the 4 year old program, much less a pre school program. If you are wanting him to go that badly than yes by all means when he reaches the minimum age, go for it. You after all are his mother. I will say that as of right now most pre k programs are not mandatory however, it is only a matter of time that the pre k program becomes a required part of a child's life and the 3 year old program will be the new 4 year old program. If you do not send your kid to pre k these days, 9 times out of 10 they are behind when they get to Kindergarten. Children are starting earlier and earlier all the time but 2 1/2 is pushing it in my opinion. You ultimately have to do what you feel comfortable with and what is right for your son.

Lori - posted on 09/15/2010

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25

I agree with Rachel. My boys are almost two and I have started visiting preschools. Each school is so different so have your questions prepared when you go. This way you can get the right fit. I really want to send them soon because I feel as though they can benefit. One of my children, I feel, would thrive from it. He loves to be around people especially other children. The other one loves to be at home and gets a little nervous around crowds, but I still feel like he needs to get out there a bit. Like Rachel said every child is different. Others don't know your child like you do.

Rachel - posted on 09/15/2010

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Each child is different. Whilst some may not be ready until they are closer to 3, others may need the extra interaction with other children at an earlier age. If you feel your son is ready then why not give it a try. I have 3 boys and they are all different. My middle son preferred to be at home and the thought of starting nursery made him anxious so I waited until he was ready at 3 years and 5 months. My other 2 however were ready to go just after the age of 2. You know your child better than anyone so just go with your instincts. If it doesn't work out then there's no harm done.

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