by Trudy Brown

Created on: October 08, 2009   Last Updated: October 20, 2009

Preschoolers are fun aren't they? Lots of defiance, lots of independence, and personality to spare. They are active, attention-driven, battery-powered noise-makers. Preschoolers are a whole other breed and I think that's nature's way of getting mom and dad ready to let go when that first day of school rolls around.

The preschool years are energy-packed, fuel-injected, chaotic years and it can run you in circles if you aren't ready. Here are some tips to help you break down the components, get organized, and manage the whirlwind to make the most of those precious days when you get the first glimpses of the person your child is becoming.

Tip # 1: Routine, routine, routine. Have a routine for bath time, a routine for nap time, a routine for meal time, a routine for bed time and any other time your child turns into a battle. Children are comforted by knowing what is coming. Nobody likes the unknown, but it's even scarier to someone who has no control over what comes next. One reason preschoolers rebel is a desire for control in a world where mommy and daddy make all the decisions. Having a routine that governs your day gives your child the comfort of knowing what to expect. They know where to go, what behavior you expect, and what rewards and consequences are available at any given time. Routines help you get organized and your child feel safe. It cuts down on rebellion and defiance because your child is not surprised by a sudden change in activities and since you do it every day he doesn't expect a tantrum to change your mind about an unpleasant activity.

Tip # 2: Take advantage of teaching moments. This is the time during your child's life when he is learning how to learn, how to process his environment and the information that is constantly presenting itself for his evaluation. Synapses are forming and firing faster than they will at any other time in your child's life. Use every available chance to teach because your preschooler is a sponge waiting for something to absorb. You don't have to sit down and teach a formal lesson. You'll probably have a better chance of your lesson having an impact if it's part of another activity. For example, quiz your child on colors during a walk. Look for shapes around town as you are driving to Wal-mart. Count the silverware as you pull it out of the dishwasher. Above all, talk to your child. Be available for him to ask questions and don't give one word answers. Give answers that encourage discussion.

Tip # 3: Plan activities. Instead of always making things up as you go, plan ahead. Choose a variety of activities, things your child enjoys and things that will be new. Choose activities that include other children, play dates or library story time, as well as solitary activities. Participating in community events or church projects can help your child understand his place in the world and teach him valuable social skills. At home, exercise your child's creativity with crafts or modeling clay. Preschoolers are active so channel that energy into something useful and educational.

Remember that preschoolers need love and attention and guidance. If you're giving them those three things, you can't go wrong, but you can make things easier on yourself by using the tips above.

Learn more about this author, Trudy Brown.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.