As your cuddly baby grows into a precocious toddler, every moment is an opportunity for learning and growth. A high-quality day care center provides the foundation your child needs to thrive in school. You can foster that growth at home with a few easy steps that will prepare your little learner for preschool.

4 Day Care Center Prep Tips

1. Begin Potty Training

Has your child begun to show curiosity about the potty? If so, take the opportunity to begin potty training. Let your toddler sit on the potty with no pressure to go in it. Develop a schedule and stick to it. Stay positive, and offer lots of smiles and encouragement to make potty time fun.  

2. Teach the Names of Body Parts

Helping your child learn the names of body parts is a fun activity. Start with the parts of the face, letting your toddler touch each part while you name it. This is a great time to introduce the five senses, as well. For example, when your toddler touches your nose, you can say, “Noses help us smell flowers.” Your toddler will also have fun identifying the body parts on dolls and stuffed animals.  

3. Read Aloud Regularly

You can foster a lifelong love of reading by getting started early. Daily reading time with your child’s favorite books will not only generate an interest in reading, but also develop your toddler’s language skills and vocabulary.

4. Encourage Social Skills

Playing well with others is a life skill that will serve your child well forever, and it is particularly important in a group child care setting. Get started early with a local playgroup or even just one other child. Model sharing toys with a partner or other family members, as toddlers quickly learn by mimicking positive behavior.

Toddlers are eager learners with a natural curiosity about the world around them. Preparing them for a day care center can be fun and educational when you take a playful, positive approach.

At Sounds of Success: Preschool and Learning Center on Oahu, your toddler will learn and grow in a safe, fun environment. A team of experienced, caring teachers and speech pathologists will get your little one ready for kindergarten through educational activities that develop the skills they’ll need for success. With a low student-to-teacher ratio and an in-house speech therapy program, there’s no better place to begin your child’s academic experience. Questions? Visit the day care center’s FAQs page online or call (808) 488-2211 to schedule a tour.