Go on outings
together: store, mall, beach, parks, city, bus, plane,
library, museum, restaurants. Talk about what you see, hear,
feel, taste, smell, etc. Make sure you listen to your
child’s descriptions and help them find words to describe
what they experience: "The trees in the forest are tall ." "The
sunshine feels warm on my face." "The ice cream is cold and
sweet."
Give your child
choices of activities or foods. "Would you like crackers
with peanut butter or apple slices for your snack?" "Should we
have salad or green beans for dinner?" Would you like to hear a
story right now or play with your blocks?" Would you rather help
set the table or match socks?" "Do you want to pick up your toys
now or put away your clothes?" These are daily decisions
preschoolers can make, yet adults often make them for them. In
these situations, the adult is clearly in charge, yet the child is
able to have some control. The choices described give children
feelings of independence and teach them
responsibility.
Help your child select items
or topics to share at school. Sharing or Show & Tell,
teaches children pride in themselves and to respect the diversity
among others.
Talk to your child about
feelings. Let him/her know those feelings are important.
Remind them that all people feel like they do at times. This
teaches respect, understanding, & acceptance.
Provide for your child to
play with others, to share, and cooperate. This will help him/her
make friends.
Read to your child.
Ask questions about what you’ve read. Discuss
the story. "Tell me what the story was about." Preschoolers
have the ability to thinkcritically. "Why do you
think so?" is the place to start!
Teach your child to
tie and button!
Remember that YOU are
your child’s first teacher. The impact of your words
and actions are the most important!