728x90
my iParenting
From Our Sponsors
e-newsletters
Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters

new terms of use
new privacy policy
award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Home › Articles › Development › Off to School We Go

Off to School We Go

Should You Send
Your Toddler to Preschool?

By Lisa A. Goldstein

Pages:  1  2  3  4  

Axness admits that preschool can be good for socializing and dealing with conflict for 4-, 5- and 6-year-olds, even a bit at 3. But at an earlier age, "I would question the appropriateness of seeking to foster the ability to successfully deal with conflict, etc., without Mom there, for toddlers," says Axness. "This is in itself utterly contrary to psycho-social developmental realities."

What Does the Expert Say?
"In my opinion, there is usually no right or wrong way to structure your child's preschool years," saysRobyn Landow, who has a Ph.D. in clinical psychology with a subspecialty in child and family psychology and a private practice in New York, N.Y. She has consulted with various community groups on issues of child development, and a large number of her private practice patients are referred to her for issues of parenting and child development.

"There are many excellent options that would contribute to preparing your child beautifully for school," saysLandow.

Having said that, however,Landow says most experts would agree that at least one year of school commonly called Pre-K is necessary. It's becoming the norm in our society, and many public school systems are working to provide Pre-K for all children. Some parents opt to send their children on the early side because they want their religious education to begin early, while other parents opt to create a nursery-years schedule throgh otheractivitiessuch asplaygroups and organized classes.

Pages:  1  2  3  4  


Want to see more?