The first day of preschool is an exciting milestone for both parents and children. It's a time when little ones begin their formal education journey, make new friends, and explore a world of learning. However, this transition can also be overwhelming for both kids and parents alike. To ensure a smooth start to this new adventure, here are five tips to help your child prepare for starting preschool.
1. Visit the Preschool Beforehand
Familiarity can ease anxiety, so consider visiting the preschool with your child before the first day. Many preschools offer orientation days or tours where you can meet the teachers, explore the classrooms, and even meet some future classmates. This can help your child become more comfortable with the new environment and reduce the fear of the unknown. Spend some time playing with your child in the classroom and encourage them to ask questions. By doing this, you'll help create a positive association with the preschool setting.
2. Establish a Consistent Routine
Preschool often comes with a more structured routine than many young children are used to. To prepare your child, establish a daily schedule that mimics the preschool routine. Include activities like circle time, reading, art, and playtime. This not only gets them accustomed to the structure but also fosters essential skills such as following directions and transitioning between activities. Be sure to practice self-help skills like using the restroom, washing hands, and putting on shoes and jackets independently.
3. Encourage Socialization
Preschool is a great place for children to develop social skills and make friends. Before starting, arrange playdates with other children in the neighborhood or those who will be attending the same preschool. This helps your child become more comfortable with the idea of interacting with peers and builds their social confidence. During playdates, observe how your child interacts with others and offer guidance on sharing, taking turns, and resolving conflicts peacefully. These skills are valuable for a positive preschool experience.
4. Read Books About Preschool
Reading age-appropriate books about starting preschool can help your child understand what to expect and ease any anxieties. Look for books that explore themes like making friends, sharing, and the excitement of learning. Reading these books together can be a comforting and educational way to discuss the upcoming transition and answer any questions your child may have.
5. Foster Independence
Preschool is a place where children are encouraged to do things on their own. To prepare your child, gradually foster independence in everyday tasks. Encourage them to dress themselves, put away toys, and make choices about snacks or clothing. This not only helps your child feel capable and confident but also prepares them for the self-sufficiency expected at preschool. Reinforce their achievements with positive reinforcement and praise.
Bonus Tip: Stay Positive and Be Supportive
Your attitude toward preschool will greatly influence your child's perception of it. Speak positively about their upcoming experience, highlighting the fun, friends, and learning that await them. Share your own positive school memories and stories to create excitement. Additionally, be a source of support and reassurance. It's normal for children to feel some separation anxiety on the first day. Encourage them by saying how proud you are and that you'll be back to pick them up later. Reassure them that you're just a phone call away if they need you.
In conclusion, starting preschool is a significant step in a child's development, and it's natural for both parents and children to experience a mix of emotions. By following these tips and gradually preparing your child for the transition, you can help make the first day of preschool a positive and successful experience. Remember that every child is unique, so be patient and flexible in your approach, and most importantly, celebrate this exciting new chapter in your child's life.
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Curious about something? Our FAQ page has the answers you need.
General Admission grants you UNLIMITED play access to all our play areas during your visit. You can return within the day and enter the playground by just presenting your receipt.
Children of all ages are welcome! We are charging admission for kids ages 1 – 17 years of age (whether or not they are playing). We do charge for infants under 1 if they do not have a sibling. But if a sibling is present, they can come in for FREE – you just need to fill in a waiver form.
No, accompanying adults do not need to purchase a ticket. Every paying child grants them 2 FREE adult entry.
No outside food is allowed. However, we do make an exception for snacks prepared at home to accommodate special dietary requirements.
We recommend parents bring socks for all children as it’s mandatory to wear socks whenever your inside the playground. You may also want to bring a change of clothes, as children can get a bit messy during playtime!
Yes, we offer free parking spaces on-site.
Our hours of operation are Monday - Friday : 09:00 am - 09:00 pm and Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 am - 09:00 pm. Please note that the hours may vary on holidays.
We ask that the Party Host arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled party time to unload the car, check-in the Guest of Honor & family and be there to greet party guests.
We recommend arriving any earlier as space is limited and there will likely be another group in our lobby. Your Party Guests should be encouraged to arrive as close to the scheduled party time as possible.
Yes, a staff member will be available to assist you in the party room.
- A $150 deposit is required to confirm your reservation.
- If you do need to cancel the party, we will work with you to find another date and time that will work best for you within one year of original party date. Your original deposit will be applied towards your re-scheduled party. Alternatively, you may use the $150 deposit towards store credit (to purchase play passes or memberships).
For Open Play Parties (we are open to the public during your party) For the comfort and safety of all guests, party headcount may not exceed 44 (adults/kids combined). You will have one room available during the party. The private room is comfortable for up to 20 children and 10 adults. After the party you are free to spend as much time as you like in the playground and parent lounge. A $30 Admission Fee will be charged for each child (under 18) over the number included in your package.
14 days advance notice is required to reschedule your event from its original date.
If you reschedule or cancel your event less than 14 days prior to its original date, your deposit is non-refundable and you may be held financially responsible for the full party package price, if the time slot is not filled after your cancellation. Rescheduling is subject to availability and not guaranteed. If you reschedule and host your event within 1 year of the original date, the deposit will apply towards your new party date. Again, if you do need to cancel the party, we will work with you to find another date and time that will work best for you within one year of original party date. Your original deposit will be applied towards your re-scheduled party. Alternatively, you may use the $150 deposit towards store credit (to purchase play passes or memberships)
For larger groups (more than 35 kids) please call us to discuss additional fee.
You are limited to 2-hours for the party space but are welcome to stay in the playground area.
We understand that circumstances happen, however, our private parties start at the scheduled event time. To maintain private parties, we are not able to extend or modify your event's schedule. We will escort late-arriving guests to your group.
The party host is required to stay at the party until your last guest departs. Once guests have left the room and in the public play area you are welcome to leave.
Yes, your guest may re-enter the play area during the entirety of your 2-hour party.
You're welcome to use your own decorations and/or paper products in the party room. To preserve the integrity of our party rooms, decorations are limited to tabletop decor. We do not permit wall or ceiling decorations, streamers, silly string, confetti, or piñatas. But remember, you may arrive up to 15 minutes before your scheduled party time to decorate.
Food & other party resources are prepped prior to your event based on the details provided by you. We may adjust your Party Package up, but not down, on the day of the event. You may purchase Goodie Bags, balloons, beverages a la carte at your event, subject to stock on hand. Additional food orders are subject to delivery schedules & fees and may not be available on the day of your event.
Wally Wombats is Las Vegas best kids' birthday destination. We know it's the most important day of the year for your child and we treat them like it. Every party is hosted by our friendly staff, who make sure your every need is attended to.
A lot! First, the party room is cleaned and set up for you with your cake, gifts, and other decor (goodie bags, balloons, etc). Our Staff will also be there to serve food & drinks for the children and will take care of cleanup. Of course, we'll check in with you from time to time to see if you need anything too.
It's easy! You can book online, by phone or in person.
