One of the biggest adjustments for bilingual families is the step that children take when they enter preschool or K5. Their routines, behaviors, and eating habits will definitely change; therefore, it is a good idea to prepare your child.
Following Instructions
One of the most important points of evaluation for determining a child’s maturity level is the ability to follow adults’ instructions, such as "Let’s all pick up our toys now," or "Let’s stand in a line," and "We are going to sit down for circle time."
This is why it's important that children are introduced to obeying instructions and completing simple tasks at home. Another opportunity that children can be given to gain experience is taking them to story time hours at the local library. In these sessions the children are able to experience this type of environment and obey the instructions of the librarian.
Working as a Team with the Teacher
In Latin America and other countries, teachers and school principals are given much authority to the point that, in many cases, their teaching methods and assignments are not even questioned. Here in the United States, the teacher needs to know how your child learns, what type of tools s/he needs to learn, and how s/he deals with conflict resolution.
It's essential that parents speak with the teacher before sending their child to school, so be sure to set up a meeting time or attend the open house night. Some schools will send the teacher to meet the children in their own home before school starts in order to observe them in their own environment.
Speak with your child’s teacher about the following:
• Is your child a visual, verbal, or kinesthetic (hands-on) learner?
• Is your child quiet or very communicative?
• What motivates your child to do things?
• How do you recognize your child’s achievements and praise him or her?
• From your perspective, what are your child’s strengths and weaknesses?
• Does your child require specialized attention in any area?
Routines
Another big adjustment when a child enters school is a consistent schedule of activities. Once the child starts school, the schedule will be very structured. For example:
8:00-8:20 Creative game
8:20-8:40 Reading circle
8:40-9:00 Hands-on math activity
9:00-9:30 Snack time…
Your child will have to follow a set schedule throughout the day. Before entering school, children
should have a fairly flexible schedule so that it is not as difficult adjusting to the new school schedule.
Nap Time
Some families make their child take a nap at mid-day and others don’t have a set nap time unless the child falls asleep naturally. In K5 classes have a specific time for children to rest. For many children unused to napping, this can be frustrating. It is recommended that children become accustomed to nap time or rest time before entering school.
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