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It’s a question that keeps many parents up at night: Is my toddler ready for preschool? One minute, they’re glued to your side, and the next, you’re thinking about dropping them off at preschool. Yikes! It can feel like you’re about to leave your little one in the lion’s den
Growing up in Nigeria, there was a simple test to know if a child was ready to start primary school. You had to stand tall, cross one arm over your head, and try to touch the opposite ear.
If you could do it, you would be ready for school. If you couldn’t, well, you’d have to wait. It seemed like a strange test back then, but it was our way of figuring out if a child was physically ready for the big leap. 
Now, we’re not saying you need to break out the same test for your toddler when thinking about preschool, but there are other ways to tell if your child is truly ready. Let’s walk through the signs to look out for. You might just discover your little one is more prepared than you think
What Exactly Does “Ready for Preschool” Mean?
Before we dive in, let’s be clear on what “ready for preschool” means. It’s not just about age. Your toddler may be three or four years old, but are they emotionally and socially prepared for this big step?
Being ready for preschool means your child has developed certain skills that will help them adjust to a new environment filled with other kids and adults.
Now, don’t panic. We’re not talking about rocket science! We’re talking about basic skills, like playing with others, following simple instructions, and using the potty.
The Potty Situation: A Major Milestone
Let’s tackle one biggie right away: potty training. This is a key sign that your toddler may be ready for preschool. Most preschools expect kids to be fully potty-trained. Imagine the teacher trying to keep an eye on 10 toddlers and changing diapers at the same time—it’s like juggling fireballs!
Now, this doesn’t mean your child needs to be perfect. Accidents happen, and that’s okay. But if your toddler can use the toilet independently most of the time, they’re on the right track.
Social Skills: Can They Play Nicely?
Another sign your toddler might be ready for preschool is their ability to interact with other children. Does your little one share toys without turning into a tiny Hulk?
Can they play alongside other kids without getting into fistfights over crayons? Preschool is a social setting, and your child will be expected to share, take turns, and communicate with others.
But don’t worry if your child isn’t a social butterfly just yet. Preschool can help them develop these skills. Look for signs that they are at least starting to engage with other kids. Maybe they say “hello” or offer a toy to a friend. Small steps can go a long way.
Can They Follow Simple Instructions?
In preschool, toddlers will need to follow instructions—like when the teacher says, “It’s time to clean up,” or “Let’s line up for recess.” This is a big part of school readiness.
If your child can follow simple, one- or two-step instructions at home, they’re showing signs that they can handle the structure of preschool.
But hey, kids aren’t robots. No one expects them to follow orders 100% of the time. Just look for signs that they understand and respond when you give them tasks like, “Put your shoes on” or “Please sit down.” If they can manage that (most of the time), they’re heading in the right direction.
Emotional Independence: Ready to Leave Your Side?
Let’s be real: this is probably the hardest part for both parents and toddlers. Is your child able to separate from you without melting down?
Preschool means being away from home for a few hours each day. It’s normal for kids to cry at first (and sometimes parents too!), but they should be able to calm down after a while.
If your toddler clings to your leg every time you try to leave, they may need more time to adjust before starting preschool. However, if they’re showing signs of independence, like happily staying with grandparents or a babysitter for a couple of hours, they’re probably ready for preschool.
Are They Curious and Eager to Learn?
A key sign your toddler is ready for preschool is their curiosity about the world around them. Do they ask “why” a hundred times a day? Do they like to explore, touch, and figure things out? This curiosity is a great indicator that they’re ready to start learning in a preschool setting.
Preschool will expose them to new experiences, like counting, recognizing colors, and learning new songs. If your toddler is already showing an interest in these things, it’s a good sign they’re ready to dive into preschool life.
Humor Time: “Toddlers are Like Little Tornadoes”
Let’s face it—toddlers are like tiny tornadoes. One minute they’re quiet, and the next, they’ve upturned the living room! Preschool will help them channel that endless energy into something productive.
Who knows? Maybe your child is the next Einstein, but right now, they’re busy figuring out how to fit a square peg into a round hole.
When in Doubt, Try a Trial Run
Still unsure if your child is ready for preschool? Try a trial run. Visit the preschool together and see how your child reacts.
Some preschools even offer a “test day” where parents can observe how their child handles the environment. This can give you peace of mind or help you identify areas where your child might need more time.
Final Thoughts: Trust Your Instincts
At the end of the day, every child is different. Some toddlers are ready for preschool at age three, while others might need a little more time.
The most important thing is to trust your instincts as a parent. You know your child best, and if you think they’re ready, then they probably are. And if they need more time, that’s okay too.
Preschool is a big step, but it’s just one of many. Take it one day at a time, and soon enough, your little one will be racing through the school gates with excitement!
READ: How to Juggle Your Child’s Homework and Extracurricular Activities Without Losing Your Mind
Managing teen homework and extracurricular activities can feel just like that. But don’t worry, I’ve got some tips to help you keep all those balls in the air without getting burned. Click here.
