Development > Pre-School Development

As children move into their preschool years (ages 3-5), learning becomes much more concrete. As parents, you may begin to wonder, "Is my child going to be ready for kindergarten?" It's important to remember that children at this age learn best through play. As adults, we need to think about what we put in the child's environment and how we interact with them to promote learning.

Families promote literacy by reading and discussing books with children. It's important to make sure that the children understand what is read to them before they learn the mechanics of reading. Point out the words as you read them and ask the children to point to pictures or identify them. When children recognize familiar logos of businesses and products, they are beginning to read. You can reinforce this by creating a book or poster with familiar words. Children also learn from the adults in their lives, so when they see you reading and writing, it reinforces the importance of literacy.

Children develop math skills by helping with everyday routines. Ask your child to count out the napkins, plates, or cups when they help you set the table. Count the steps as you walk down them.

Talking to your children about things that happen or things that they see in their world also helps to promote development. This is a time in their lives when new discoveries constantly happen. In the early preschool years, when these new discoveries occur, preschoolers often become disconcerted and display inappropriate behavior. Preschoolers want to be independent, but often still need adult help. Providing choices with limits and being patient will help the children through this stage. Always try to identify with your child and then give a choice with limits. For example, if your child wants to eat candy, but you want him or her to have a healthier snack, you might respond, "I know you want the candy, but that can be bad for your health. You can choose the apple or the raisins."

Preschool children learn best when they are interested and when materials are presented in an age-appropriate way. High quality preschool programs offer children the opportunity to choose from a variety of activities that are organized in learning centers or interest areas. Your child may tell you that he or she played all day at school, but real learning takes place in each area. Typically, preschool classrooms have defined areas for art, blocks, reading, dramatic play, fine motor, science and math, and sand and water. In addition, areas may be set up for wood working, technology, and cooking. The outdoor area extends the classroom and should include materials for all indoor areas as well as promoting gross motor skills. When children play in activity centers, they are building skills for literacy, math, science, social studies, art, technology, and developing independence and good social skills.