School readiness
Is My Child Ready for Preschool? 8 Signs to Look For
Quick answer
Age is only one part of the answer. Here are eight gentle signs that your toddler may be ready to enjoy a few hours at preschool.
Table of contents (9 sections)
- 1. Shows curiosity about other children
- 2. Can spend short periods away from you
- 3. Communicates basic needs
- 4. Enjoys simple routines
- 5. Can follow a one-step instruction
- 6. Has some play stamina
- 7. Is starting to show independence
- 8. You feel ready too
- Frequently asked questions
- What is the right age to start preschool?
- What if my child is not toilet trained?
Many parents in Pune start thinking about preschool when their child turns one and a half or two. Age matters, but readiness is really about how your child plays, communicates and copes with small changes. Here are eight signs we look for — none of them needs to be perfect.
1. Shows curiosity about other children
Does your child watch other children in the park or society garden, or try to join their play? Interest in peers is one of the best signs that a group setting will feel exciting rather than scary.
2. Can spend short periods away from you
If your child is comfortable for an hour or two with a grandparent or a familiar relative, the first weeks of preschool will usually go more smoothly.
3. Communicates basic needs
Your child doesn't need full sentences. Pointing, a few words or signs for water, food and the toilet are enough for teachers to understand and help.
4. Enjoys simple routines
Children who are used to regular meal, play and nap times adjust quickly to the rhythm of a school morning.
5. Can follow a one-step instruction
"Please bring your shoes" or "Put the ball in the basket" — following simple requests helps a child take part in circle time and activities.
6. Has some play stamina
Staying with one activity — blocks, drawing, a puzzle — for five to ten minutes shows your child can enjoy a short, structured session.
7. Is starting to show independence
Trying to eat alone, take off shoes or wash hands are wonderful signs. Preschool will build on them.
8. You feel ready too
Children pick up on our feelings. Visiting the school, meeting the teachers and understanding the settling-in plan helps parents feel confident — and children follow.
Frequently asked questions
What is the right age to start preschool?
Most children start Play Group between 1.5 and 2.5 years. The right time depends on your child's temperament and your family routine.
What if my child is not toilet trained?
That is completely fine for Play Group. Teachers and helpers support diapering and gently start toilet-training routines with parents.
