As a stay-at-home mom of two young children, I am often asked when I want to send my oldest preschool. The truth is, I don’t know when – or if – I’ll send them. Do not get me wrong. As a former teacher, I firmly believe that there are many benefits to enrolling children in a school Preschool program. As a full-time mom, I also know what is best for my daughter. At the moment – At least for now – it’s about being with me.
At just three years old, my daughter sees the world opening up to many new possibilities. Suddenly she’s eligible for summer day camps, parent nights at our local kids’ gym, and all sorts of drop-off programs. For this reason, attending preschool seems to be a given for many mothers of preschool children. But we’re not there yet. And that’s okay. Let me explain why.
Why my 3 year old is still at home with me
This is why I’m not sending my 3-year-old daughter to preschool quite yet:
It works for our family
Most importantly, my three-year-old is still at home with me because it works for us. Logistically, preschool is expensive. Since I am already home and caring for my children and family full time, preschool is not a necessity for us. Not to mention, my daughter has special nutritional needs that require careful attention throughout the day. Being the one to care for them (and feed them) gives us all peace of mind. Additionally, the money not spent on a 3 grade classroom program can be used for other activities that will fill my daughter’s cup. It just makes sense for our family to have both children at home with me now. It’s a win-win situation.
I can curate daily experiences for my daughter
Since I’m at home and not in the preschool classroom, my three-year-old can spend days full of adventures and memories with her younger brother and me. On any given weekday morning, you might find us at the science museum, play cafe, zoo, etc park – among many other favorite places. We are also busy with ballet classes, Story time in the libraryand regularly Game data. I love curating everyday experiences for my children and I take full advantage of the opportunity to do so while I can.
My daughter is still doing well socially
It is often said that preschool is crucial for socialization. Although this may be the case for some children and families, I would like to say that my daughter will not suffer any social disadvantage if she stays at home with me for a little longer. If anything, she is exposed to a wonderful variety of people of all ages (and in many different settings) on a daily basis.
Aside from our typical kid-focused adventures, we experience regular old everyday life together. Be it shopping in the supermarket, FaceTiming with grandparentsor when I attend another family member’s doctor’s appointment, my preschooler does not lack interaction with others. She also manages to build a special bond with her little brother every day. She thrives socially!
She is still learning, playing and growing
I firmly believe that play is the work of the child. And even if it wasn’t? I am a teacher by profession and I really enjoy the preparation Learning activities for my children. Having my preschooler at home with me doesn’t mean he’s sitting around watching cartoons all day (although I’m not against using a little screen time every now and then to improve our mental health). She is still learning, playing and growing every day. By keeping my three-year-old daughter with me, I can ensure that she learns in the way that is best for her her.
The days are long but the years are short – I want to enjoy every moment with my children
Staying home with my two little people—including my three-year-old, who is still my baby—gives me the precious opportunity to enjoy every single fleeting moment with them while they are little. Even though I sometimes wonder if I’m making the right decision, my heart always reminds me: Yes, I definitely am. . . At least for now. We continue to do the important work of childhood, but also create space for rest and relaxation when needed. And I don’t take the ability to do this freely and without apology for granted.
My 3 year old won’t be 3 forever
Choose when to send a child to kindergarten can be a very personal decision. For some there is no other option. For others it is not an option. And for me? It’s simply the best-case scenario for my family – at least for now.
My 3 year old won’t stay this small forever. She won’t stay that way much longer either. That’s why I’m sending my 3-year-old to preschool for now. And that’s okay. Because you know what? We are perfectly content to continue spending our days together. And I cling to these days.
At least for now.
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