Attending preschool teaches children how to be students. Attending a preschool program helps a child adjust to a school schedule and build the stamina necessary to succeed in kindergarten. Preschoolers learn to raise their hands and follow teacher directions, which helps to prepare them for kindergarten and beyond. Children also build their literacy and math skills in preschool. Most programs teach children about the letters of the alphabet and give them a chance to practice writing. Preschool students will also learn about counting, matching and identifying patterns.
Even a child who has many siblings or goes on frequent play dates can benefit from the social interactions she'll get in preschool. Children learn to make friends and work with others. Working together to build a tower or complete an art project teaches preschoolers how to compromise and respect the ideas of others. Being around many children all day also teaches preschoolers about empathy. Hurting others' feelings and getting their feelings hurt teaches children to be thoughtful and compassionate.
Dropping off a child who's never been away from his parents at preschool can be difficult, but the child will have an even harder time adjusting to kindergarten if he's never been away from home. Preschool helps children adjust to being away from their families so they'll be able to transition smoothly to kindergarten. Preschoolers also learn about doing things for themselves. Some children may be babied at home, but in preschool they will be expected to clean up after themselves and complete their own projects.
When children are preschool age, they're naturally curious and just beginning to understand the way the world works. The range of activities that children can do in preschool gives them an opportunity to explore in a safe environment. Preschool gives children a chance to use materials of various textures to create art projects, learn about different cultures and perform simple science experiments. Being encouraged to explore when they're young can teach children to enjoy school and always be curious.