Homeschool Preschool

Sometimes in our modern culture it gets forgotten that preschool children really learn best through play. If you have found yourself unexpectedly homeschooling preschool (or, you’ve been planning to anyway!) here are my best tips.

First, I  would invest in some imaginative toys - play food and pans are usually a big hit (Ikea has good ones) dolls, a toy phone that doesn’t do anything (requires more imagination!). A sand box is great if possible. Play dough. Crayons and paper. Music toys! Play silks! Less is more but having good imagination building toys will really help your child learn to play and discover.

Next, create an environment for learning. Have a gentle, flexible routine that includes read aloud time (with picture books), outside time, rest/nap time, and “helping” with house chores (life skills!) Play music around the house and keep the tv off as much as you can. Go for walks. Point out flowers and birds. Collect pine cones and paint them or turn them into bird feeders. Find a shallow creek to play in and make mud soup in an old bowl.

If you are the primary caregiver, schedule a break for yourself. This can be a Signing Time dvd, Mr. Rogers, etc episode, that gives you 30 minutes to drink a cup of coffee and reply to emails. This - in addition to nap/rest time - needs to be intentionally used for either tasks that need to happen OR things that refresh and recharge you. That means yes, start the dishwasher or read a book in a hot bath, no, do not doomscroll on Twitter feeling agitated about things beyond your control when your child will need you present and engaged in fifteen minutes.

Preschool aged children can be intense to parent but they are learning SO MUCH so fast, so try to enjoy it and be intentional and enjoy the ride!