Potty Training

Dear Annie,
I am hoping to start my three year old in Preschool. The problem is, he is not yet potty trained. I have been encouraging him to use the potty, but he just doesn't seem interested! The Preschool I have in mind is not licensed for diaper changing and won't accept him if he is not in underpants. What should I do?
Signed, Discouraged Debbie

Dear Discouraged Debbie,
The first thing I would say is - relax! Your son can feel your frustration. He will potty train when he is ready and the more pressure you put on him, the more he may resist. If he is not trained at the time you are ready to send him to Preschool, why don't you find a Preschool that is licensed by the State and approved by the Health Department to change diapers? I have watched children, over the past 22 years, eagerly use the potty when they observe their peers doing the same! The combination of your more relaxed attitude and the encouragement of teachers and little friends who are all learning at the same time, will make it happen!
Signed, Annie

What is a "Reggio" School?

Dear Annie,
A friend of mine sends her preschooler to a "Reggio" inspired preschool. She raves about the school and says that her daughter loves it! Can you tell me what a "Reggio" school is?
Signed, Curious Carol


Dear Curious Carol,
The term "Reggio" school comes from schools that were established in the Reggio Emilia region of Italy after World War II. A man named Loris Malaguzzi developed these schools with the belief that children are innately intelligent and, if given the proper tools, will discover the answers to the questions they have regarding their world. In a "Reggio" school, the teachers act as facilitators and explore along with the children. Reggio Emilia schools are distinctly creative as Loris Malguzzi claimed that children have 100 languages and should be encouraged to express themselves through all of them.
Signed, Annie

Choosing a High Quality Preschool

Dear Annie,
I have just begun to research preschools for my daughter who will be 3 in the fall. I want preschool to prepare her for Kindergarten. Should I look for a school that stresses academics? Inquisitive Ida

Dear Inquisitive Ida,
When you visit a preschool, NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Chidren) advises you to look for the following things:
1. Children spend most of their day playing and working with materials or other children.
2. Children have access to various activities throughout the day.
3. Teachers work with individual children, small groups and the whole group.
4. The classroom is decorated with children's original artwork.
5. Children learn numbers and the alphabet in the context of their everyday experiences.
6. Children work on projects and have long periods of time to play and explore.
7. Children have an opportunity to play outside outside every day.
8. Teachers read books to children individually or in small groups.
9. Curriculum is adapted for individual children.
10. Children and their parents look forward to school every day.

As you can see, there is a lot to look for in a quality preschool. My best advice is, when you visit a school - Are the children happy? Are the teachers happy? Listen for the laughter and you'll find a great preschool! Signed, Annie