We all want the best for our children--that goes without saying. But it can be difficult to know the best way to propel them forward in life, especially when they are in their earliest years. So what can you do to help them get ahead?
Well, since the majority of their early lives will be spent in the classroom, preparing them for school is one of the ultimate ways you can be of assistance as a parent. Let me give you a few tips so you can do just that.
First, start as early as possible. Your child's brain is developing at a dramatic rate, so don't be daunted by the idea that they might not understand. Having a large collection of picture books and educational toys on hand can be extremely useful as you teach your little one about colors, numbers, and shapes. The key is to be consistent in order to boost your kiddo's recall.
If you're a working mom, then it's a good idea to enroll your child in a preschool setting instead of a traditional daycare so that his or her potential can be reached while you're away. You may even want to consider a bilingual environment, as children have the ability to pick up additional languages much easier than adolescents or adults.
If you plan to home school, on the other hand, then you need to choose a time when your child enters the preschool phase. Study up on some local programs to find out about their organization and overall approach.
Though you might suppose that it is simple enough to teach such young children, your child will be better off if you find a company producing lesson plans for 4 year olds. This will help you administer to your little one's unique learning style while also developing a pace he or she can follow, with curriculum that is age-appropriate.
Don't forget that your child is almost never too young for extracurricular activities. Expand their horizons and their social circle through such endeavors as karate, dance, and similar pursuits. But don't forget to let kids be kids. Schedule play dates with neighborhood kids or acquaintances from Sunday school.
Encourage your child's growing imagination through artwork and reading. You don't need to be limited by your child's age, as my mother began reading Louisa May Alcott's classic Little Women to me when I had barely begun elementary school. If you're not much of a reader yourself, then consider this a chance to improve!
No mother is perfect, and it can be challenging to teach your children to give them the head start they deserve. But don't give up--you can do it, and your kids will thank you for it!