Discussions

I'm looking for opinions, thoughts, recommendations, really any sort of information, regarding pre-school.  
 
My oldest child is 3. I am a stay at home mom, so I had never really thought about it before, but several people have asked me lately if my child will be starting pre-school in the fall. I'm not sure whether it would be beneficial to him at this point or not, he still seems too young to me to even be starting to think about school.  
 
I have no idea how it even works, it's all new to me! Any info is much appreciated!

You've probably missed the fall registration and now they may be full. But call around and see what's still out there for spots. I think it's healthy for early socializing outside of the familiar circle of friends/family, especially for stay at home parents. As long as your son has good bathroom skills/habits, not too shy and doesn't have any major separation anxiety issues... go for it. My wife and I had positive experiences for all three of ours. And it makes that first year of school go so much easier. Plus, the bonus part is that it gives you a chance to do things with one less child. Either with by spending focused time on the younger ones or just running on errands twice a week, it's a win, win for the both of you. You get to get things done without him and he prepares to do life/social skills without needing you. But, you need to call and email now, if you want to have any chance of finding a spot for the fall.  
 
Just my opinion, I could be wrong.

Preschool, like kindergarten, is optional (yes, believe it or not kinder is *not* mandatory in Manitoba, although virtually all children will attend). It's main purpose is to promote "school readiness". Some of my older kids went to preschool, and my younger ones have not. I do not notice a difference in their "school readiness" once they hit about 5 or 6 (kindergarten age), all have average social skills for their ages, and no one seems to be suffering if they didn't go to preschool.  
 
I admit I am somewhat biased in that I homeschool some of kids (one does go to public school), but my homeschooled kids include one that had preschool and some that didn't. All have had ample opportunities to have a life/social skills without me hovering around. It just really depends on what the priorities for your family are.  
 
In other words, if you want to send him to preschool, go for it. If you don't, go for it. Either way, it's the right thing to do.

I have been wondering the same thing as you, as my son is also 3, and have had many questions from others if he is attending preschool or not. I think I will wait till he is 4 before sending him to preschool, then he goes to kindergarten the next year. I think it's a great opportunity, however, I am a strong believer of "teaching at home", meaning, if you choose not to send them to preschool, or wait till they are older, then teach skills at home, like cutting and drawing and things such as that. exposure is a big part of development, so if you don't send him to preschool for exposure, then do it at home. But make sure you do it. There are important things to learn, doesn't matter where they learn it.

It's a great opportunity for your child to be exposed to taking directions from other adults and learning to play with others without you present.  
 
Try calling Riverview Early Learners. Great teachers and it's only $5 per class.

I think exposure to either daycare or preschool is great for children. You would be surprised at the different things they learn in a new setting. Plus, it's great for children to socialize with children their own age. Most kindergarten teachers will tell you they can see the difference between children who stayed at home and children who had some exposure to a preschool setting. If nothing else, it allows you (mom) to have a couple hours to yourself a couple days a week which can be beneficial to you to. I believe Riverview Preschool still has a couple spots open.

I think it's great for kids. I sent mine for one morning the first year, 2 mornings the second year before kindergarten. I agree, kindergarten teachers comment that they can tell which kids go to preschool.  
 
For me it was not about the learning (though that great too), it was more about socialization, learning to get along with other kids, sharing with kids that are not your siblings or friends. My kids were both shy and anxious so it was a great experience not to be around Mom and Dad for a few hours, learn to listen to another adult etc.

You will NOT be disappointed in 345 Preschool, the new director, Sandy Moroz, is the best you will ever experience! Her new setting in King George in infused with Reggio Emilia's teaching philosophy. She is a wealth of knowledge and seriously so ingrained in child development it is CRAZY!!  
 
Contact number is 204-725-2415

I sent you a message with some information!

I own and operate here please give me a call, 204-761-5474

I have personal experience working with Sandy Moroz, who has just taken over the director position at 345 nursery school. She is extremely knowledgeable and one of the biggest child advocates you will meet. She has so much to offer families, not only the children she works with. You will not regret sending your child/ren to learn from what she has to offer!!

Dreaming big!!! She is amazing! So so so good with children!!!

Sandy was a therapist for one of my children many years ago and I can't say enough good things about our experience with her. If you choose to apply to her school, you will not be sorry. Your children will be in the most capable and caring hands.