Children often thrive and grow accustomed to routine and familiarity. Unfortunately, with the arrival of COVID-19, many of our routines have been uprooted and changed. At Playgarden Prep, like other NYC early learning centers, we too have been forced to alter some policies to ensure children, families, and staff are as safe as possible. This includes daily health screenings, temperature checks, handwashing, and new child drop-off and pick-up processes. Be sure that you are aware of all changes at both of our preschool locations (or whatever NYC early learning center your little one attends); for example, such things as class sizes and what your child may be able to bring with them to school may have changed. These new policies will likely take both you and your child some time to fully adapt. Luckily, we have some parenting tips to help you help your little ones with these changes!
Explain Changes Ahead of Time
The first of our parenting tips simply has to do with communication. Explaining the changes and why they are happening can help your child be more prepared for them. Children are surprisingly receptive and absorb information quickly.
Saying Goodbye
Prior to this pandemic, many preschools and NYC early learning centers may have allowed multiple family members or caregivers in schools. Now, due to capacity mandates, that will no longer be possible. Familiarize yourself with the drop off routine and discuss this with your child. Try establishing a consistent routine from day one. Having a drop off routine is something that all children need and find very reassuring.
A bonus parenting tip about saying goodbye: reading books about goodbyes and first separation is a great way for your child to see and anticipate what is going to happen at their NYC early learning center.
Practice Makes Perfect
A great parenting tip that can help in most new situations is to practice and role-play. Try practicing new routines and school policies with your child ahead of time. This could be things like mask-wearing, proper social distancing, and even the right way to wash your hands. Normalizing these practices will only help these new changes.
Not Everything Will Change
And for the last of our parenting tips — while we know these times have many changes, it is important not to lose sight of the fact that some things will be the same. Focusing on these things can help with other transitions. Favorite classrooms, materials, and snacks will be here, as well as friends and beloved teachers at your chosen NYC early learning center. Be sure to “hype” up these sorts of things whenever you can.
UES and Tribeca Preschools
Call UES at: (212) 965-9718 or email UES at: ues@playgardenprep.com
Call Tribeca at: (212) 965-9717 or email Tribeca at: tribeca@playgardenprep.com
Speak with our teams for more information about enrollment options in our Upper East Side and Tribeca locations, and check out our website for more parenting tips, DIY activities, and more!
