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5 Things That Really Matter with Preschool Activities

January 06, 2008

It is easy to get caught up in feeling guilty about what your kids don't have and lose sight of what is truly important. There are many choices for activities and destinations for kids which makes it difficult to decide what is best for you and your child. I know I don't want to rush my kids from appointment to appointment and want to get the most bang for my buck out of activities I choose for my kids. This is particularly true for sports, dance or other activities that come with enrollment and other fees. How do you decipher what is the right activity for your child? What really matters to preschoolers?

1) Interest. This should be a no-brainer. My boys love to run and chase balls so enrolling them in preschooler soccer is a good fit. If your child hates running and getting dirty, maybe sports aren't appropriate yet. Don't enroll your child in an activity just because other parents brag about how much their kids enjoy an activity because it may not be the right fit for your family.

2) Appropriate Age Level. Just as interest is important, choosing activities that are right for your child's development is vital to you both enjoying what is supposed to be a fun time. Check with instructors and other families to find out if it is a good fit for your child.

3) Family Support. Parents are the center of a young child's world and your child won't want to participate without Mom or Dad (or both) there to provide encouragement.

4) Friends. Whether they be existing playmates or new friends, your child needs to be in a friendly environment with kids that have similar interests.

5) Fun! Is it fun? Some people take children's sports and other activities way too seriously and ruin it for everyone involved. Make sure you are one of the parents encouraging kids and parents to relax and have fun. Talk to coaches and other parents about staying focused on the kids and making sure it is enjoyable since that is why you are all supposed to be there!