Though each facility may accept different age ranges, preschool
programs are typically for ages three and four. Preschools may
also be known as daycare centers, pre-kindergartens, or early
childhood centers. The age at which your child starts will
depend mostly on his or her maturity, and your job situation.
Today, preschool is not only a social and educational experience
for the child, but often a necessity for parents who work full-
time. Because admission may be limited, it's best to begin your
search about a year before the time you think you'd like to
enroll your child. It's important to prepare your son or
daughter, too; start discussing the program with them a month or
so before it begins. Tell him or her as much about the preschool
as you can, including what toys they have, the teachers' names
and what they look like, and what activities they'll get to do.
You might send a favorite toy or blanket with them, so they have
a reminder of home. Also, it's best to stay with them on their
first day; in fact,