Back to School: Should I Send My Child to Preschool?

Deciding whether or not to send your child to preschool is a question only you can answer because you know your child better than anyone. There are certain criteria, however, which can determine whether or not your child might be ready for preschool.

Research indicates that most preschoolers begin between the ages of two and four, and while it seems very young, it is nonetheless an important starting point in your child’s educational experience.


Here are some readiness tips for you to consider:

• Your child can speak in short sentences
• Your child can be understood by others
• Your child exhibits listening skills
• Your child is able to follow simple directions
• Your child gets along with other children and can participate in play groups without incident
• Your child can pay attention to the teacher
• Your child can sit quietly and focus on an assigned project
• Your child does not have separation anxiety - a little is normal, but crying for longer than a half hour shows signs of not being ready.

The age at which you send your child to preschool can only be determined by you and your assessment as to whether or not the child is ready, capable of listening and taking direction, playing with other children, sharing, and interacting in a friendly and polite manner.

You may not choose to send your child to preschool at such an early age, which is absolutely fine. You can begin teaching your child at home, and when you feel the child is physically and emotionally ready, a decision can then be made. There is no age defined time nor any law that says you have to commit to preschool at the tender age of two.