Find the perfect playschool

It may be difficult to believe, but your child is old enough to start attending playschool. Even if it is just a few days a week this is a big step for your toddler, says Terésa Coetzee

THE VALUABLE LESSONS taught at playschool lay the foundation for a strong future ahead. Consider the following tips before choosing a playschool, to make sure that going to school is something both you and your child will look forward to.

BEFORE YOU DECIDE Visit a few schools in your neighbourhood before taking the final decision. You need to take the best decision on behalf of your child.

Weigh up things like the language of instruction, what methods are being used to instil discipline and whether they encourage your particular religion.

Think about the main reasons why you are sending your child to school. Does he need more stimulation because he is bored at home? Do you want him to learn and be in an environment with friends? Do you want him to be school ready? Remember, playschools can be expensive (even the bad ones). You are within your rights to demand value for money.

Since he will be spending most of his crucial formative years at playschool you have to be certain that he is in good hands. Decide if you want the school close to where you work or closer to home. Who is going to drop him off and fetch him? A good school close to home should take preference. FIVE DAYS A WEEK... You may want to send your three-yearold to school for only two or three days a week to ease him into the transition. Your teacher may try to convince you to send him for five days a week to help him adjust faster, but experts say this is nonsense!

“How quickly a child adjusts to their new environment depends on their personality and not on how many days a week he goes to school. A teacher will try to convince you to send your child to school more frequently, because it benefits their pockets,” says Johannesburg-based educational psychologist Natasja Loubser.

Many schools are prepared to enrol a child who only wants to attend a few days a week. Find a school that can accommodate your specific needs and requirements.

SIGNS NOT TO IGNORE

• A school that has a bad reputation or a school that you heard any negative comments about. Speak to other parents about their thoughts and opinions.

• How do the teachers speak to the children? Is it an environment filled with love, kindness and respect?

• If your child still cries when you drop him off after two weeks you should investigate.

• Does the school follow a curriculum? Do they have set rules and structured playtimes and activities in place? Children should not just be “kept busy”.

• If the staff is underpaid and there has been a high staff turnover.

• Trust your instinct and listen to what your child has to say about the school and the teachers.

TOYS AND APPARATUS Toys and apparatus at a playschool are very important. Keep an eye out for the following:

• Are the toys of good quality and is there enough for everyone to play with?

• Does the school have a wide variety? Inside the building you can look for educational toys like puzzles, books and blocks. Outside check for jungle gyms, a sandpit, swings, ropes, balls and balancing beams.

• Are the toys and apparatus age appropriate?

• Is there a designated place to paint, read and play freely? Do they have a music corner with instruments?

• Do they encourage movement through play? Look out for the presence of balls, ropes, hula-hoops and balancing exercises.

• Scissors should be child friendly with round edges.

• Check that the play apparatus is safe and whether it is placed on cement, sand or grass. YB