preschool or kindergarten

Rachael - posted on 07/08/2010

I think that letting go is good. it allows you daughter to start being more independant. I think that putting her in preschool or kidnergarten is a great idea. In Canada, most people put their kids in because daycare is so expensive.

Kelly - posted on 07/08/2010

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB12324921...
I thought this article was well written and reflects what I have heard all along that any benefits of preschool kids getting a head start eventually disappear. "The few long-term studies undertaken so far, however, offer little proof that the academic benefits of an average preschool program end. The only lasting effect of average programs documented so far for all kids is a modest increase in behavior problems. Sixth-grade teachers of children who spent a lot of time in child-care centers say they act up a little more than other kids, though their behavior is still within the normal range, the institute study shows.."
I would suggest that if academics is your main thing then you will get a boost that will fade out and you kid blends in with all of them. If it is social and you have no opportunity for any play groups then it may be something to consider. My kids got plenty of play time at daycares at church, MOPS groups, and the health club I worked out at. They have never been behind academically or socially. Actually the opposite because I invsested in higher education. However I know that many do not have that luxury or choice.

Heidi - posted on 07/07/2010

Preschool is a very goo idea!! not only does it give Mom a little break but it prepares you both for when school starts and it will help make the transition easier! You never know, your little one might surprise you and forget to give you a hug and kiss good bye because they are way too excited to be playing with other kids!! :)

JuLeah - posted on 07/07/2010

Kelly, I question where you get your data.

JuLeah - posted on 07/07/2010

I think pre school is an important thing. It helps them to go into kindergarten ready to learn.

As they walk through the doors to kindergarten they ought to know their letter sounds (for sure the names of the letters) they ought to be able to put on their own coat, cut a line on paper with safety cutters, know their shapes and numbers and colors



If they can write their own name and read a few words, that is gravey



They ought to know their first and last name - their birthday



It is great if they can tell, or retell, a short story .... the social skills that go with kindergarten are demanding too



Pre school helps them tp be ready for all of this

Sherri - posted on 07/07/2010

YES put her in she will need it. Not necessarily for the academics but for the social interaction as well as learning what they will expect from her once she starts kindergarten. Such as being able to sit and follow directions interacting with peers her own age. etc.

Kelly - posted on 07/07/2010

Preschool is not necessary. Maybe you are going back to work? None of my kids went. They are years ahead in the classroom mostly due to private schooling however studies have shown preschool really has no educational value and does not produce kids who are outpacing kids who have not gone. Quite honestly home school kids are way ahead of kids enrolled in public schools as a whole so experiences at home with you readng to her or teaching her arts/crafts is all she needs. Re-evaluate what it is you want from it. Don't do it because everyone else is. Most homes have two working parents so that is pushing it more than anything else.

Maura - posted on 07/07/2010

Yes, you should little kids need little kids, no matter how much we play with them it seems like they need their ow friends. It is fun.

Heather - posted on 07/07/2010

As a kindergarten teacher, I would HIGHLY recommend preschool!!

Katherine - posted on 07/06/2010

YES!!! Put her in preschool. I did with my daughter and socially and developmentally she is now ready for kindergarten.

If you don't it's going to be a huge adjustment for her. Just my opinion.







PS: I will cry the first day of kindergarten

Karina - posted on 07/06/2010

thank you andrea and amy...thats kinda of why i would like for her to start preschool next year because of the social aspect...hailey doesnt have any friends her age...a few..younger.. but i will definitely start looking...i think i can deal with 3 days out of the week and 2 1/2 hours...i will begin my searching asap...i forgot about the waiting list....thank you ladies

Amy - posted on 07/06/2010

Well if you don't put her in next fall the following year will be kindergarten. We're doing our son 4 this year since he isn't around kids his own age a lot so he's going for the social aspect as well as to help him adjust to when he actually starts school. We chose a 3 day pre-school thats 2 1/2 hours. Thankfully where we live kindergarten is only a half day program which will give him even more time to adjust for 1st grade.

Andrea - posted on 07/06/2010

If you are going to be putting her in preschool I would start look now because alot of them have a waiting list. I think every parent feel this way when it come's to letting their child to school for the first time. It doesn't last once they get bigger and summer breaks come you will be begging for to school to start up again lol