Although your child will develop when they go to school, as a parent, there is much you can do to ensure that your child develops as well as they can. Don’t leave everything to the teachers; if you do what you can to help, your child will stand the best chance of success not just at school but far beyond. So how can you do this? Read on to find out.
Give Them Routine
When you think about the school day, even in the very early years of preschool, there is one thing every school and every school year has in common – the routine. Each child knows exactly where they are meant to be and what they are expected to do, and not only does it help them develop in terms of their behavior and their learning, but it also makes them feel safe and secure, which helps them to understand even more.
If you can replicate this routine at home (as far as possible), they will continue to learn and grow in the same way they would at school. Start by having mealtimes at the same time each day, for example. You can also have set times for play, for reading, for screen time, and so on. Stick to your timings, and your child will be able to develop well as they will feel comfortable enough to do so. If you start these routines before they even begin school, they will also settle in more quickly.
Routine is crucial for children, and if you are fostering a child from an agency such as thefca.co.uk, it’s a vital component of helping them feel safe, so don’t underestimate the good you can do.
Connection
Children need to spend with their family and friends so they can build connections in their lives. It’s crucial that you set time aside to play with them and be with them. When you do this, they will feel a lot more comfortable coming to you with questions, and they will listen to the answers. They will be able to talk about their feelings and anything that’s bothering them, and all because you have a strong connection and bond.
We’re all busy, but when a child wants to spend time with you, it’s important that you do so. Even if you can’t do it right away, let them know that you’ll be with them as soon as possible, and then make sure you keep that promise. They’ll certainly remember if you don’t.
Sleep
In order to develop, a child needs to get enough sleep. Children often need a lot more sleep than you might think, and if you can see that they are getting cranky or not listening to what you’re saying, rather than getting angry with them, let them have more sleep. Start bringing bedtime forward, and don’t wake them so early (unless you have to, of course). If they need a nap during the day, let them have one.
Sleep is when the body is able to recharge, and that includes the brain. Without enough sleep, your child will find it hard to concentrate, and they will get angry and not learn well. The better they sleep, the better they will develop.
